Johann Zarco took a risk with tyre choice for the second consecutive MotoGP weekend, but once again it didn’t go to plan.
After opting for a medium wet rear tyre in the Sachsenring Sprint and losing positions, the LCR Honda rider made another bold move at Brno, selecting a soft rear slick—the only rider to do so. His decision was influenced by solid long-run pace in the morning warm-up, where he posted competitive times on a 16-lap old soft tyre.
However, the higher race-day temperatures rendered the strategy ineffective. Zarco, who started from ninth on the grid, struggled for grip and gradually slipped back through the field, finishing 13th.
“Tough race. It’s a pity I couldn’t get a better result after a strong Saturday,” said Zarco. “We believed the soft would work due to low consumption yesterday, but the heat today affected both front and rear tyres. It became very difficult after half distance.”
Despite the disappointing result, Zarco remains eighth in the championship standings and is the only Honda rider inside the top 14.
“At least I collected some points, which was the main goal,” he added. “I’m in a good position heading into the summer break and have achieved the top ten target I set at the start of the season, with standout podiums in France and England.”
Zarco now shifts focus to the Suzuka 8 Hours, where he’ll defend last year’s title with HRC. He will take a brief four-day rest in Osaka before preparing for the endurance classic. Jack Miller of Pramac will also compete at Suzuka, representing Yamaha.
