MotoGP Test Sepang J3, Johann Zarco (Ducati/16): "running after the time was not my goal"

Johann Zarco finished sixteenth in the three days of testing that MotoGP had set up on the Sepang track in preparation for my 2023 season. A ranking which is disappointing when we know that the Frenchman has the bike of the moment is a Ducati which, in GP23 or GP22 version, has monopolized the top 10 in Malaysia. We thus find seven in this top ranking, including two Aprilias and one Honda at its conclusion, which have great difficulty ensuring diversity. Tricolor teammate Jorge Martin also faced the clock on each of his outings. But Johann Zarco rightly refused this fight…

Johann zarco brought up the rear of the clan Ducati in 16th place during Sepang testing. He will begin his seventh season in the premier category in 2023. The Prima Pramac Ducati rider was 0,963 seconds behind the best time achieved by his colleague from arque Luca marini. While seven of the eight Borgo Panigale factory drivers were in the top 10, zarco was the only driver to finish outside of these positions. But he assures him, there is nothing to worry about too much.

**Johann Zarco: “ I wanted to feel the bike and create a decent feeling, which I managed to do«**

Public chat speedweek he begins his performance thus: “ we have made good progress ", declared the pilot of 32 years. " Because of the rain, we couldn't use new tires, but chasing the clock was not my goal either. I wanted to feel the bike and create a decent feeling, which I managed to do ". The double Moto2 World Champion also clarified: “ the other Ducati riders are already very fast and I'm working on keeping up with them ».

The tricolor was also requested by Ducati to carry out numerous tests. A penalty that he embraced: “ it was a pleasure for me to test some things for Ducati. I have a certain sensitivity, which allows me to give good feedback. The GP23 is already very good. It is better than last year's model in terms of handling, cornering stability and braking. I tested a few fairings, it was really interesting. In Portimão we will have a very good motorcycle ».

During the 2023 season, he predicts: “ it won't be easy for other manufacturers and drivers. All Ducati teams are strong, even Alex Marquez adapted to the bike better than expected. Seven Ducatis in the top 9, it's hard for the others, but positive for us. But I'm sure Fabio and Marc will also be there. They are excellent drivers who fight hard and therefore also have a chance to win the title ».