Johann Zarco may be the oldest rider on the MotoGP grid at 35, but he is one of the few who already holds a contract for the 2027 season.
While most riders’ deals run through 2026, the LCR Honda rider secured a two-year extension with HRC during the summer break. His new contract covers both the final year of the 1000cc era and the first season of the upcoming 850cc Pirelli regulations, where he hopes his experience will help him take advantage of unpredictable situations.
Zarco explained that the incoming regulation and tyre changes could create opportunities for more podiums or even wins, and that securing a place on the 2027 grid was a key goal. He added that his improving feeling with the bike and the team’s hard work continue to motivate him.
The French rider began his MotoGP career with podium success at Tech3 Yamaha, but his time at KTM in 2019 ended early. He later revived his career with Ducati, climbing through the satellite teams to a factory-spec Pramac seat, where he claimed his first MotoGP victory at the 2023 Australian Grand Prix.
Zarco joined LCR Honda after that and became Honda’s top performer last season, finishing 17th overall. This year, he gave Honda its first win since the Marc Marquez era with victory at Le Mans, and again ended the season as the manufacturer’s best-placed rider in the standings, in 12th.
Although track testing is underway, no manufacturer has publicly revealed an 850cc prototype yet.
The next oldest rider on the grid after Zarco is nine-time world champion Marc Marquez.
