The engine of Johann Zarco's Honda broke three laps before the finish of the Sepang sprint. The Frenchman nevertheless retains the positive points of a generally good day, with a passage to Q2 and interesting times.
VIDEO DEBRIEF
L’abandon : ” How are you. Small engine failure, it shouldn't happen but maybe a little too many kilometers. We were supposed to use him for the last time in this sprint race, but he gave up with three laps to go. »
Transition to Q2: “Very happy with the qualification. I had announced that it was going to be hard to get to Q2 but it made me want to believe it, and the time set in Q1 made me happy. I was happy to go beyond the feeling on this bike, that there was something that came out. Afterwards, if we compare to the 1'56.3 (from pole), we realize that there is still a sort of crowd. Everything in its time because it remains a good time. »
The sprint before the technical problem: “This feeling that we improve when braking is hard to have in a race because there are so many other things that come into play, with other bikes, tires that heat up. There I didn't have the confidence to attack from the first lap. Afterwards I tried to keep the best rhythm possible, I wasn't in a bad group but I was missing a little something to be with them. »
“They seem to be using the rear tire well, but once they use all the grip, maybe I can find an advantage. Let's see tomorrow how to manage the first half of the race to do well in the second, hoping that it goes like that. »
Where to compete in the last Grand Prix to replace Valencia: “In terms of ease, I think Jerez could be an interesting track. I doubt Qatar because there is going to be Formula 1 and they apparently need time to get everything ready. Everything will be sent to Europe, the trucks just have to come down… In terms of logistics, it's doable. »
