Zarco Eyes Australian GP as Crucial Test for Honda’s Progress: ‘A Chance to Confirm Misano Gains

Johann Zarco emphasizes the significance of the Australian MotoGP race for Honda, stating, "I aim for us to minimize the time lost relative to our competitors."

Johann Zarco from LCR is confident that a solid performance at the 2024 MotoGP Australian Grand Prix will serve as proof of the enhancements Honda implemented on its motorcycle during the Misano event.

The French rider revisits the location where he clinched his first MotoGP win. During the 2023 Australian Grand Prix, Zarco overtook his ex-Pramac teammate Jorge Martin on the final lap to secure his long-awaited victory.

Although a recurrence is unlikely due to the current performance of the Honda, Zarco arrives in Australia full of optimism. This confidence stems from the improvements observed in the RC213V during recent races, particularly after the package updates made at the Misano test last month.

According to Zarco, the Phillip Island track should theoretically suit the Honda's capabilities more effectively than the Motegi circuit used for the Japanese Grand Prix. He is confident that a solid performance this weekend will demonstrate the bike's actual potential.

During the pre-event press conference on Thursday, he remarked, "We'll have to wait and see how we do this weekend."

"I am hopeful that these extended turns will provide us with the opportunity to catch up to the others."

"Undoubtedly, the previous two Grand Prix events provided a significant lift for both me and the team. In Japan, despite a rough start on Friday, the subsequent two races turned out to be quite engaging."

"It appears that this track doesn't have sections where there are issues with wheelies during acceleration."

"I wish that we can reduce the amount of time lost to our competitors. If our theory proves correct, it will validate the progress we made at Misano at this event as well."

"This will benefit Honda, as it demonstrates their understanding, allowing us to continue progressing."

In the past three rounds, Zarco successfully advanced to Q2 twice, and during the Indonesian race, he secured Honda's first top 10 finish in a grand prix this year.

Honda's consistent improvement in performance coincides with the announcement at the Japanese Grand Prix that Romano Albesiano, who is currently an engineer with Aprilia, will take on the role of technical director at HRC starting in 2025.

Discussing the numerous recent modifications Honda has implemented, including updates to the motorcycle and changes in staff, Zarco expressed his optimism.

At the start of the year, I mentioned that making it into the top 10 and competing at that level was within reach. However, as the season progressed, I realized we needed to abandon this goal.

"At this moment, we have the opportunity to aim for a spot in the top 10 once more. This serves as a strong motivator."

"They are making some modifications, and in any case, the Japanese have a particularly remarkable work ethic."

"There is no need to question the quality of the work."

"We need to figure out which path to take, and it appears that our recent actions were a hopeful sigh that this approach could succeed."

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