LCR makes desperate plea to keep Zarco amid factory Honda talks for MotoGP 2026

Johann Zarco’s LCR Honda boss Lucio Cecchinello says he doesn’t see a benefit in the French rider switching to the factory Honda team for 2026.

The 34-year-old Zarco has made no secret of his desire to step up to the works squad next season, when the incumbent Luca Marini will be out of contract.

During Free Practice 1 for the French Grand Prix on Friday, however, Cecchinello told Dorna that Zarco would have to get to know a new working environment while gaining no advantage in terms of equipment.

“We want to continue working with Johann,” said Cecchinello, who won seven grands prix at 125cc level during his riding career.

““We have created a very good bond between the engineers, the team and him. I believe it’s the correct environment [for Zarco] and in my opinion it would be a pity to change completely.

“I understand his point of view, of course. I was also a rider and I’ve been [around MotoGP] for almost 40 years. So I know how the situation is and I fully respect the opinion of all the parties.

“But I want to say that here at LCR we have the same material, the same factory-specific engine and parts. So I don’t very much see the point, unless it is the prestige of racing for the factory.”

Zarco has previously mentioned exactly that prestige factor as part of his motivation for wanting the factory seat. He also told media on Thursday that he would not have access to the latest Honda engine being run by the factory team at Le Mans this weekend.

“It’s out of my control,” continued Cecchinello. “I just hope he will take the correct decision. I will just do my best and keep my fingers crossed.

“If [Zarco leaves] then we will take another challenge and I am sure Honda will continue to support us in the best way, as they are doing now.”

Zarco made a solid start to his home grand prix on Friday morning, clocking the eighth-fastest time in Free Practice 1.

While the majority of the field ran the same tyres throughout the session – soft fronts and medium rears – Zarco’s time was a late one, set on fresh tyres. He was however running medium rubber both front and rear.