Johann Zarco’s MotoGP season has been thrown into uncertainty after the French rider suffered severe injuries during a dramatic crash at the Catalan Grand Prix.
The LCR Honda rider was involved in a major collision during the second race restart when his left leg became trapped between Francesco Bagnaia’s motorcycle and his own bike. The incident resulted in significant damage to Zarco’s left knee and lower leg, forcing him out of action indefinitely.
Medical examinations confirmed injuries to both the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament, along with damage to the medial meniscus and a fracture to the fibula in his left leg.
Zarco travelled to Lyon on Tuesday to consult renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, a specialist in knee ligament injuries and sports trauma. Following further examinations, doctors decided surgery should be delayed for several weeks to allow the initial trauma and surrounding knee injuries to heal before the procedure takes place.
LCR Honda confirmed that a clearer recovery timeline will only be determined after the surgery and further medical assessments.
The Catalan Grand Prix proved physically demanding for several MotoGP riders beyond Zarco. Alex Marquez suffered a fractured C7 vertebra following a separate heavy crash and is continuing medical evaluations after already undergoing surgery for a broken collarbone.
Race winner Fabio Di Giannantonio also endured a painful weekend. The Italian skipped Monday’s post-race test due to lingering pain in his left hand after being struck by debris during the race.
Bagnaia, who was involved in Zarco’s accident, is undergoing checks on his left wrist, while Jorge Martin was taken to hospital after a crash during testing. Fortunately for Martin, scans confirmed there were no fractures.
LCR Honda confirmed that a more detailed recovery programme and possible return timeline will only be determined after the surgery. The team added that it remains in close contact with Zarco throughout his rehabilitation process.
