MotoGP: Zarco confirms rumours by signing for KTM

As first reported by MCN weeks ago, Johann Zarco will join the Red Bull KTM team at the end of the 2018 season, announcing a two-year deal with the Austrian manufacturer yesterday at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez.

The Frenchman has been linked to the ride since the final round of the 2017 season at Valencia, with speculation mounting in recent weeks that he had put pen to paper with the Austrians. And, with the deal now in place, KTM boss Pit Beirer says that he’s excited about the potential that Zarco brings to a fast-improving bike.

“There has always been a good contact with Johann and since the Red Bull Rookies Cup. We supported the Moto2 project through WP and our Moto3 Team Manager Aki Ajo is a good friend of him. We also have a nice connection with his manager Laurent Fellon. It was a group effort to get this done. We had to trust in our capability to build a winning bike and Johann would not come over if he did not see and feel that trust. We feel very responsible now to get that package strong enough so that he can continue on the level where he is. It is our big target.”

“It is clear that we want to take another step in MotoGP. The first two years were about building up the project and to get everything running. You always want to get the best possible riders on board and it’s obvious with Johann beating the factory guys on satellite machinery and consistently qualifying on the front row means he is a strong fighter with a strong sprit. I’m convinced we can reach the next level with a rider like Johann with us.”

The news leaves British racer Bradley Smith out of a ride, however, with the team confirming 24 hours beforehand that his teammate Pol Espargaró would be remaining with them for another two years.