MotoMatters.com | Kropotkin Thinks

The LCR Honda team issued the following team presentation after the launch of the LCR Honda and LCR Honda Idemitsu teams:

CRAFTING THE FUTURE

Lucio Cecchinello

The engines roaring, the tension, the sound of the tools in the pit garage, the rush of adrenaline, the glory and the struggles, the teamwork, the emotions, all these elements are the materials to create a future that can bring satisfaction, joy, and unforgettable moments again. I’m always fighting and pushing to learn and create something better, which motivates me to continue day after day. I believe in growing and contributing to developments and new approaches, as it’s an essential part of my experience over the years in the championship.

The present determines the future, and each of us, with our unique contributions, plays a key role in the big racing family we’ve created through the years.

The thrill of our past victories or the lessons learned from our defeats; these elements are our daily fuel, and they will continue to drive us forward. As the director of the CASTROL Honda LCR Team, I’m constantly adding everyone’s pieces of knowledge to craft our future. Each season is unique and 2025 will be another chance to fight for our goals. Each of us has a role in this, and our collective efforts will shape our future.

Johann Zarco

“At 18, I reflected on Valentino Rossi and his journey from 1996 to 2006. In just ten years, he had become a superstar. I told myself, ‘Ten years is a long time, but not that long, I’ll try to do the same.’ With that mindset, I focused on doing my best, staying present, and working toward a promising future without overanalyzing every step. That approach led me to two world titles, putting me in a better position than when I first had that thought. For me, success comes from balancing the present with preparation for the future. It’s crucial to stay focused on the moment without losing sight of what’s ahead. By maintaining this equilibrium, we can move forward with confidence, shaping our own future with purpose and assurance.”

34 years old, born in Cannes, France. A two-time Moto2 World Champion. Zarco, a man of commitment, knows what winning a race and taking podiums in MotoGP means. He joined the CASTROL Honda LCR team in 2024, and after finishing the season as the first Honda rider in the standings, he’s committed to fighting with his RC213V for solid results in 2025. His consistency, cleverness, and hard work, alongside the CASTROL Honda LCR crew, will be a strong duo to push and fight to be on top again.

Somkiat Chantra

“I constantly think about my future; my goal is to become a reference for young riders and serve as an example for them. I want to support their growth and contribute to the development of motorsports in my country. Hard work, passion, and determination are the keys to shaping our future.”

26 years old, he’s the biggest smile in the paddock. Chantra’s resilience and determination shone through in 2022 when he secured Thailand’s first-ever Grand Prix win in the Mandalika rain and scored four podium results that season.

In 2023, Chantra continued to push the boundaries of his performance, culminating in a triumphant victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, clinching two podiums that season.

In 2025, he is making history by participating in the premier class with IDEMITSU Honda LCR, becoming the first Thai rider to achieve this milestone, an example for future generations.

His journey is a testament to the fact that with hard work and determination, the future can always bring something unique and special.