British GP Runner-Up Johann Zarco: “After Fabio’s Crash, I Thought a Win Was Possible” – MotoGP 2025
Johann Zarco credited his second-place finish at the British Grand Prix to a strong restart after the red flag. The LCR Honda rider admitted he struggled in the initial start, unable to gain positions, but used the second start to launch a more aggressive charge. He overtook multiple riders with confidence and tried to stay with Marco Bezzecchi once passed, knowing how fast the Aprilia rider was.
Zarco emphasized tire management as the critical factor in the latter stages of the race. After Fabio Quartararo’s unfortunate retirement, he briefly believed a victory might be within reach—especially if Bezzecchi began to struggle with grip. But while Zarco battled tire wear, Bezzecchi maintained his pace to take the win. Still, Zarco’s back-to-back podiums—following his Le Mans victory—marked a major step forward for both the rider and Honda. He became the first Honda rider since Marc Márquez in 2021 to score consecutive podiums.
Johann Zarco:
“For me, having a second start was key. I couldn’t improve my position in the first start, so I was relieved to get another chance. I got away well the second time, improved my position, and made some confident overtakes. When Bezzecchi passed me, I knew how fast he was, so I just tried to hang on to him as much as I could.
Tire management was everything today. After Fabio’s crash, I started thinking maybe a win was possible. I thought Marco might struggle with his tires in the final laps, but actually, he didn’t. He kept a strong pace while I was the one having more issues managing the tire wear.
I’m really happy with how we performed in dry conditions here. I didn’t expect to go this well on this track in the dry. We had good speed, and the pace was solid. Just like in Le Mans, when I’m doing what I need to do, the results come. I can’t say this felt better than the win at Le Mans, but the feeling after the checkered flag was definitely a good one.”
(Photo courtesy of Michelin)