Zarco 'Training Almost Every Day' Ahead of MotoGP Return

Johann Zarco can finally smile again. The LCR Honda rider, sidelined since a knee injury at Catalunya in May, is reportedly “training almost every day” and targeting a September comeback.

The news was confirmed by LCR team owner Lucio Cecchinello during the Silverstone Grand Prix weekend. He said Zarco’s physical condition continues to improve after deciding against surgery on his knee ligaments.

The injury occurred when Zarco got tangled with Pecco Bagnaia’s rear wheel in a turn-one incident during the restart at Barcelona. Although surgery wasn’t needed, the recovery process has been lengthy and demanding.

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“We are very happy to say that he's training almost every day with an off-road bike and flat track, and he's now definitely focused on coming back,” Cecchinello told MotoGP reporters at Silverstone.

The most realistic target is LCR’s home round at Misano. However, Cecchinello stressed that the final decision rests with doctors and MotoGP medical staff. “I don't hide that [Misano] is the target, but the final word will be made by his doctors, and also the MotoGP doctor. So, let's see. I know that he's doing his best, and from our side, we are always ready,” he added.

If that timeline holds, Cal Crutchlow, who has been replacing Zarco, will make his final stand-in appearance at Aragon later this month. This situation also hints that the battle within the Honda satellite team will soon heat up again with the Frenchman’s return.

Zarco’s presence on the grid is certainly awaited by many. Beyond his experience, LCR Honda’s performance in the second half of the season could change dramatically if Zarco returns in top form. The coming weeks will determine whether the Misano target is truly achievable.