Lucio Cecchinello, the dynamic director of LCR Honda, is making waves as he reflects on a season packed with highs and lows while setting the stage for an exciting future in MotoGP. The 2025 season has seen LCR Honda rise to the occasion, with the talented Johann Zarco clinching the coveted sole victory for the iconic brand, igniting a spark of hope and ambition within the team.
In a revealing interview with GPOne, Cecchinello delves into the emotional rollercoaster of the past season. He recalls the extraordinary moment when Zarco triumphed at the French Grand Prix, a victory steeped in history and emotion. “We have won five races in our history, three with Crutchlow, one with Rins, and one with Zarco, but Johann’s victory had something poetic about it. His parents were there, and it had been 71 years since a Frenchman won the GP at home in the top category. Hearing the French anthem sung by tens of thousands of spectators on the podium was incredibly moving. Perhaps only Cal’s first victory was more intense emotionally, but Zarco’s win stands out as the best,” he passionately shared.
Yet, the absence of star rider Marc Márquez has loomed large over the team, making their successes even more significant. “It obviously makes us happy, and it has further strengthened our relationship with Honda. The victory at Le Mans was a delightful surprise, especially since we knew Zarco would be strong in the rain. However, Alex’s win in Austin was unexpected, adding to our pride, though it’s clear these situations are not easy to replicate,” he admitted.
Cecchinello provided a candid assessment of a season that felt like a tale of two halves. “It’s been a year of two speeds. I prefer to remain optimistic, so the overall assessment is positive, but the details tell a different story. We kicked off the year strong with a sixth in Argentina, a fourth in Qatar, followed by the victory in Le Mans and a second in Silverstone. It was a fantastic start, but I must acknowledge that the second half of the season saw us face a slight crisis,” he reflected.
Fortunately, Honda’s concessions allowed LCR to regain momentum in the latter part of the season, infusing the team with newfound optimism as they prepare to welcome rising star Diogo Moreira to the MotoGP circuit. “The project with Diogo is incredibly exciting. He has proven to be fast on every bike he has raced. Juliá, Marc Márquez’s father, told me, ‘He rides faster than my son on the motocross bike,'” Cecchinello revealed.
Moreira’s impressive résumé boasts wins in Supermoto, flat track, and a championship title in Moto2, fueling hopes that he could be a formidable asset in MotoGP. “There are reasons to believe he can become a great MotoGP rider, but of course, we need to give him time to learn,” he emphasized.
However, the Brazilian newcomer will not only have to familiarize himself with the complexities of MotoGP but also navigate the final year before significant regulatory changes. “He’ll have to learn to ride very complex bikes, but I don’t think the challenges will stem from the 1000cc engine and Michelin tires. Theoretically, with 850s, less aerodynamics, and no holeshot, the learning curve would have been easier,” he explained.
Cecchinello also recounted the thrilling journey leading to Moreira’s signing. “I asked his manager if they had considered staying another year in Moto2. He replied they would only consider it if they didn’t win the championship, but when an opportunity comes along, you have to seize it. They didn’t hesitate, and I believe they are happy to be welcomed into the Honda family. I think Diogo, if he works hard, can write history with Honda,” he concluded, leaving fans and enthusiasts buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead.
