Jakarta – Johann Zarco has engaged in discussions with Honda Repsol about the possibility of replacing Marc Marquez in MotoGP for the 2024 season. However, the outcome has not been particularly encouraging, as Zarco claims that Honda is uncertain about his capabilities.
The statement was made by Zarco during an interview with Sky Italia. He acknowledged that talks took place between himself and Honda during the weekend between the Mandalika MotoGP and the Australian MotoGP.
It has been confirmed that Zarco will join LCR Honda next year; still, he suggests that the chance of him stepping into Marquez’s shoes in the factory team is slim. The main reason, he explains, is the lack of mutual understanding between the two parties.
“I cannot ignore the opportunity with the factory team (Repsol Honda). I need to think about it, and (Lucio) Cecchinello (LCR owner) respects that,” Johann Zarco said on Monday, October 23rd, as quoted by Crash.
“My manager spoke with Repsol Honda, both in Indonesia and here in Australia. But we see their hesitation, and I don’t like that,” he added.
This leads the 2015 and 2016 Moto2 World Champion to ultimately decide to continue racing with LCR Honda in MotoGP 2024.
“So, I prefer to respect my commitment to Lucio rather than riding a factory bike with 100% uncertainty,” Zarco stated, confirming his stay with LCR.
Zarco’s decision to remain with Honda LCR leaves Honda with two potential replacements for Marc Marquez, Maverick Vinales, and Miguel Oliveira. Nevertheless, both riders are currently contracted with Aprilia and RNF until the end of the 2024 MotoGP season.