Johann Zarco is set for an earlier MotoGP return than expected after LCR Honda announced his intention to compete in Aragon.
Zarco has been absent from the MotoGP grid since his crash and subsequent injury in Barcelona back in May.
Following a red flag in the Catalan Grand Prix, Zarco crashed with Francesco Bagnaia and Luca Marini, getting trapped between the seat and rear wheel of the former’s Ducati machine as he travelled through the gravel.
The resulting incident saw Zarco tear his medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligaments, with further damage to his posterior cruciate ligament, however doctors elected against surgery on the injury.
He was initially earmarked for a potential return in September, although his progression has allowed him to return to riding in recent weeks.
It also means he has a chance of competing two weeks earlier than planned should he pass medical tests at the circuit before next weekend’s Aragon Grand Prix
“I’m pretty happy with how the knee is progressing and recovering,” Zarco said in a team statement.
“I feel good enough to jump back on the MotoGP bike, and I’m really looking forward to getting back to racing.
“The Supermoto and CBR have been great for building up the intensity and doing long runs. I’ve really missed my team, racing and the paddock, so I can’t wait to be back in Aragon!”
Zarco will also have to serve a double long lap penalty on his return, after being deemed at fault for the incident in Barcelona.
“We are very happy to see Johann’s recovery progressing so well and to welcome him back sooner than initially expected,” said LCR team boss Lucio Cecchinello.
“We will take it step by step, but we are all looking forward to having him back with the team and working together again on track.”
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