Johann Zarco at the Red Bull Rookies Cup
The only French in MotoGP 2018, Johann Zarco, is about to switch rides again. Currently racing aboard the Monster Yamaha Tech3 YZR-M1, Zarco will join the Red Bull KTM Factory Team for the 2019 and 2020 MotoGP seasons.
Zarco, 27, began his career in 2007 by winning the Red Bull Rookies Cup on board a KTM. From then on he drove for three years in the former 125cc class (two-stroke) (2009-2011) and six years in the Moto2 class (2012-2016), winning the Moto2 title in 2015 and 2016.
Johann Zarco at the Red Bull Rookies Cup
Zarco joined the MotoGP class on the Satellite Yamaha in 2017 and took three podiums that year, earning him Rookie of the Year 2017. His best result so far in 2018 is second place on the Argentine Termas de Rio Hondo circuit in April.
During his career he has participated in machines from Aprilia, Derbi Motobi, Suter, Caterham Suter and Kalex.
For 2019, Zarco Pol Espargaro will join Red Bull Factory Racing Team RC16, confirming the rumor that began earlier this season.
“There was always good contact with Johann and since the Red Bull Rookies Cup,” says Beirer Pit, KTM Motorsport Director. “We supported the Moto2 project through WP and our Moto3 team manager Aki Ajo is a good friend of his. We are also on good terms with his manager Laurent Fellon.
“It was group work to do it. We had to trust our ability to build a winning bike and Johann wouldn’t come by if he didn’t see and feel that trust. We now feel very responsible for making this package strong enough so that it can continue at the level it is at. It is our big goal.
“It is clear that we want to take another step in MotoGP. The first two years were about building the project and getting everything up and running. You always want to get the best possible drivers on board and it is obvious that Johann beats the factory people on satellite machines and consistently qualifies in the front row, which means that he is a strong fighter with a strong spirit. I am convinced that with a driver like Johann we can reach the next level with us. “
As for Zarco’s replacement on the Monster Tech3 Yamaha, no one has been confirmed.
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