At KTM, it would seem that in addition to a concern for the development of the RC16, a problem Johann zarco be identified. The direct and clear words of the boss of the brand, or, quite simply, the one at the top of the Mattighofen pyramid, leave no doubt about the fragile position of the Frenchman within the official Austrian team. A team that he joined at the end of last season for two years. The burst of anger after FP1 in Jerez with uncomplimentary comments about the bike was the straw that broke the camel's back. At the same time, Stefan pierer congratulates teammate Pol Espargaró as well as the newbie in the Tech3 satellite team Miguel Oliveira. As a message for the future…
Public chat speedweek, Stefan pierer, CEO of KTM, does not beat around the bush: “ Johann's performances are just unacceptable. Johann is a big disappointment. NOTWe wanted Johann Zarco and Pol Espargaró to push each other. But this is not the case. This really hurts me » begins the boss who is not the only one in high places to doubt the double World Champion. “ Johann Zarco expressed himself in a very negative way in our environment » declared Hubert Trunkenpolz, member of the board of directors of KTM. “ On Saturday in Jerez, he received a very clear message from our team management. He was told what is possible and what is not possible ».
It is in this context that the arrival of Jean Michel Bayle was announced as “supervisor”. As a function of both support and supervision… “ Zarco parted ways with his manager, you know this story. And if a top athlete doesn't control his environment, you have a problem. Johann is a big disappointment. He has problems, but it's a mental thing »Comments Stefan pierer.
« He's broken up with his longtime agent, the one who got him to where he is now, and the people around him now generate more complications than anything else. At this level of competition, the last step is always mental. But he must also accept that our bike is not a Yamaha, with its four in-line cylinders. I for one will squeeze him until he delivers the level we think he's supposed to deliver, which he can be sure of ».
Stefan pierer finished : " new parts have already been manufactured according to Zarco's wishes. Pit Beirer also recruited Jean-Michel Bayle as supervisor. But if it doesn't work, you take stock at the end of the season. Pol Espargaró is alone and the other is a problem that is overtaken by a beginner. ". It can not be any clearer.
