If MotoGP is the highest category of speed races, the Suzuka 8 Hours is the most prestigious race of the World Endurance Championship, the dream of many riders in the premier class of the world championship and the project of many brands, which aim to climb to the highest step of the podium of the renowned Japanese event. Johann Zarco not only lived this experience, but also tasted success.
Good things are not easily forgotten and the Frenchman is ready to return to the historic Japanese track if there is the possibility. In 2025, the Suzuka 8 Hours is not concurrent with a MotoGP race, however the commitment required by the current championship is very great and rest is also precious in a year where one never stops. Therefore, his presence next year is not confirmed.
Despite the uncertainties, on the Thursday of the Japanese Grand Prix, Zarco clearly expressed his desire to run the endurance race again and recalls the experience he had this year with great pleasure: “If it were possible, I would like to do it again! I’ll have to see the calendar and how it fits together. With this year’s great adventure, it would be nice to repeat it next year.”
Johann Zarco, Team LCR Honda
Photo credit: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
The World Endurance Championship is acquiring ever greater prestige and the Suzuka 8 Hours in particular has whetted the appetite of some brands, particularly Ducati. The Borgo Panigale team has already presented itself this year in Japan, but with a real official structure it will do so in 2025. There has been a lot of talk about the presence of prominent riders from the Bolognese brand, with the inevitable presence of Pecco Bagnaia among these.
However, the participation of the reigning world champion is far from confirmed and even Zarco himself revealed at Motegi that he had not spoken to him. Of one thing, however, the Frenchman is certain: Honda will have to work hard before Gigi Dall’Igna starts working on the Endurance project and then dominates as he is doing in MotoGP. “I haven’t spoken to Pecco, but I have already told Honda that we have to make progress before Dall’Igna arrives in this category. Otherwise we won’t win anymore!”, Zarco said smiling.
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