Johann Zarco described his recent Honda Suzuka 8 Hours test as unremarkable, despite preparing for the upcoming endurance event. The French rider, who is competing as a factory Honda representative, recently completed a private test in Suzuka following the British Grand Prix. Zarco is returning for his second appearance at the iconic eight-hour race, having triumphed in his debut alongside Takumi Takahashi and Teppei Nagoe last year.
Testing Conditions and Challenges Faced by Zarco
Zarco began testing sessions in late May, traveling directly to Suzuka after the British GP. The LCR Honda rider highlighted the difficulty of managing travel and recovery in a short time frame, impacting both his physical and mental readiness. He explained that the fast pace of the schedule left little time for rest, which complicated his preparation efforts for the endurance event.
The test in Japan was good,
Johann Zarco said during the pre-event press conference ahead of this weekend’s Aragon MotoGP.
He also pointed out the value of practicing on the Suzuka circuit and getting accustomed to the Honda CBR1000RR-R model used for the race. Zarco noted his goal was to compare performance closely with Takumi Takahashi, who has proven speed on this track.
Just a bit tricky because we have to travel straight away after the race, we do not sleep a lot, and we have to be on the bike, so it’s not the best as a physical condition and mental condition.
—Johann Zarco
The limited testing time meant there were no major developments reported from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), with Zarco emphasizing the challenge of achieving significant progress under tight constraints.
But nothing special from HRC, because we had a too short time.
—Johann Zarco
Zarco Reflects on the Atmosphere and Fan Engagement in Japan
Despite the short stay, Zarco appreciated engaging with fans during his time in Japan. He spent just over two days at the venue but noticed a warm reception from spectators recognizing his presence at the circuit.
I only spent 49 hours in Japan, so it was not a lot, but it was very nice to see some fans: after the Thursday I did in Suzuka, the second day, some fans knew I was there and came, and that was quite impressive.
—Johann Zarco
Team Adjustments Following Luca Marini’s Crash
Looking ahead to the Suzuka 8 Hours scheduled for August 3, Zarco and Takumi Takahashi may be joined by a different third rider due to Luca Marini’s recent crash during post-British GP testing. Marini is sidelined from this weekend’s Aragon MotoGP due to injuries and is not currently set to be replaced in the Honda HRC Castrol team alongside Joan Mir.
Official confirmation regarding Marini’s participation in the Suzuka race and any potential substitute rider has yet to be announced.
Implications and Expectations for the Upcoming Suzuka Race
Zarco’s insights highlight the rigorous demands that stage racing and travel place on riders preparing for endurance events like the Suzuka 8 Hours. With limited testing time and physical strain from back-to-back competition schedules, Honda’s challenge will be optimizing performance under pressure. The team’s composition remains uncertain due to Marini’s injury, which could affect their strategy and chances of defending their title.
As the August race approaches, attention will focus on how the Honda squad adapts to these setbacks while aiming to maintain their strong Suzuka record.
