Johann Zarco has sat in a production bike again after a broken knee at the Barcelona GP in May.
Recovering From the Barcelona Crash
The injury occurred on 17 May when Alex Marquez’s clash with Pedro Acosta shifted a piece of the Ducati onto Zarco’s leg, leaving him dazed.
Despite the initial damage, he started in the second session after the first red flag and immediately stumbled, slamming the first turn and forcing Luca Marini and Pecco Bagnaia off their lines.
That mistake left the rider’s knee severely damaged, and doctors initially delayed surgery to reduce swelling, only to cancel the operation after a burn‑wound appeared below the injury.
Choosing a conservative path, Zarco opted for a non‑operative recovery schedule that begins with gym work and cycling to shorten the downtime.
Following months of training, he lifted his leathers to take a first track session at Circuit Andorra – Pas de la Casa in Grandvalira, a familiar circuit for many MotoGP riders.
Looking Ahead to a MotoGP Return
April ia has urged MotoGP to permit a return‑to‑track test for riders absent for 45 days or three consecutive races; Zarco satisfies both conditions.
Such testing may occur on any circuit outside the next eight weeks, with Honda offering every track after dropping its concession rank on their side.
LCR has reached out to Honda requesting clearance for a test on the RC213V to rebuild trust in the bike.
Even if the manufacturer approves the session, medical staff advise postponing any MotoGP appearance until the San Marino GP at Misano, scheduled for 10‑13 September.
Zarco’s aim to return at the Aragon GP in late August remains ambitious, but the doctors’ counsel will likely set the final timeline.
"