Johann Zarco has openly expressed his enthusiasm for the possible arrival of rising star Diogo Moreira to the LCR MotoGP team ahead of the next season. As Honda prepares for notable changes, the opportunity for Moreira to join LCR could shake up the team dynamics and elevate competition within the squad.
Honda recently confirmed Luca Marini’s continuation with their official team, while Zarco secured his seat at LCR through a two-year contract extension. Joan Mir’s position remains settled with his existing deal, but the status of the second LCR rider spot is uncertain, especially considering Somkiat Chantra’s struggles this year.
Challenges for Somkiat Chantra and LCR’s Outlook
Somkiat Chantra’s rookie MotoGP season has faced serious difficulties. The Thai rider has only scored a single point at the Dutch TT in Assen and was subsequently sidelined due to a knee injury. His limited contributions and current recovery have placed Honda in a challenging position, compelling the team to explore other options for 2025.
Among potential replacements, Diogo Moreira stands out due to his current strong showing in the Moto2 Championship, where he sits third and remains in the hunt for the title, trailing the leader by just 31 points. Moreira’s talent on the track and his Brazilian heritage offer Honda an attractive prospect, especially with the Grand Prix of Brazil scheduled to debut on the MotoGP calendar next year. Although there have been rumors suggesting Moreira’s promotion to LCR, Honda has yet to announce any official decision.
Potential Rivalry and Benefits of Moreira Joining LCR
If Diogo Moreira becomes Zarco’s teammate at LCR, the French rider expects a competitive rivalry to develop. Zarco views this potential challenge positively, believing it could sharpen both riders and benefit the team overall.
I believe Moreira, with all he has accomplished and his experience, has greater potential to adapt to the bike and could very well become a contender to challenge me,
Zarco said during the recent Hungarian Grand Prix.
When someone challenges you, it pushes you to elevate your game.
—Johann Zarco, MotoGP Rider
Zarco also pointed out that Moreira’s background could offer valuable feedback to Honda, which may be lacking with the current second rider.
It doesn’t fundamentally change the work being done at Honda. However, having feedback from someone who has raced with Pirelli and excelled in Moto2 could provide Honda with additional insights that Somkiat hasn’t been able to deliver thus far.
—Johann Zarco, MotoGP Rider
Implications for Honda and the MotoGP Season Ahead
As Honda evaluates the future of its riders, the potential pairing of Zarco and Moreira could bring renewed energy and insight to LCR. Moreira’s entry could also align well with Honda’s strategy surrounding the new Brazilian Grand Prix, amplifying Honda’s presence and connection with the event. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as official announcements remain pending, with anticipation growing for the intense on-track battles that a Zarco-Moreira duo would guarantee.
