Stefan Pierer is the boss of KTM and he spoke to Speedweek about the thunderclap coming from the Red Bull Ring: Johann Zarco wants to prematurely end the contract that binds him with the Mattighofen brand. The CEO confirms and speaks of professional burnout among the French.
Stefan piererCEO KTM don’t beat around the bush: “ we currently have three and a half drivers. I'm not talking about Syahrin. I'm talking about Johann Zarco. I think he's showing symptoms of burnout. We wondered if we should even take it out of service for one or two Grand Prix races. We are responsible for him ».
« We wanted to give him the opportunity to get back to his old form. It's not just about fitness. It's also the rest. Jean-Michel Bayle strives to help him. There is no doubt that Zarco is a good motorcyclist. The fact that Johann Zarco turned off his bike at Assen was only an effect or a sign of overwork syndrome ».
He continues on Speedweek: “ Zarco has often made comments that no one at KTM wants to hear. In Saxony he criticized the fact that KTM had tried 1 things since November, that it didn't work. On Thursday he said that Dani Pedrosa's work has not borne any fruit so far. Much of the progress we've made this year with the MotoGP machine can be attributed to test rider Pedrosa ».
Pierre finished : " he asked me and Spielberg if we could resolve the contract amicably. He can decide for himself when he leaves us. He will tell us if he wants to drive until the end of the year. He suddenly seemed completely relaxed when he obtained my consent for the termination of the contract ».
« I'm curious to see if this relief will affect the circuit and what results it will achieve at the next Grand Prix if it decides to continue until the end of the season. After all, he has now achieved his second best result of the season.”
“We are also taking all legal disputes from Johann Zarco, so that he can concentrate on driving. We assured him immediately. This solution is best for both sides ».
