Castrol Honda LCR MotoGP racer Johann Zarco and team manager Lucio Cecchinello only had 24 hours when they visited the Philippines from this year’s Malaysian Grand Prix. In the swift press conference held at Castrol’s office in Bonifacio Global City, here are six things we learned from the French motorcycle racer.

1. Early support and discipline are crucial. Zarco highlighted the importance of such in nurturing a successful racing career. His parents’ guidance and his commitment to rigorous training were instrumental in his success. He shared: “When I was young, my parents allowed me to pursue my passion. My parents would not sell our house to fund it, but they were very supportive.”

2. Resilience is key. He shared a challenging period in his career when he was unexpectedly released from the KTM racing team back in 2019. “I contemplated about retirement that time; it was really unexpected.” However, his unwavering belief in himself and his passion for racing allowed him to overcome adversity and continue his journey.

3. Collaboration and innovation drive success. Zarco emphasized the importance of working between riders and engineers. He believes that by working together, they can optimize bike performance and achieve greater success in the future.

4. The power of high-performance lubricants. Castrol Honda LCR team manager Lucio Cecchinello acknowledged the significant role of Castrol’s high-performance products in his racing success. These lubricants protect the engine under extreme conditions, ensuring optimal performance and durability.

5. The future of MotoGP. Zarco expressed his vision for the future of MotoGP, advocating for a balance between technological advancements and the raw excitement of racing. He believes that the sport should continue to evolve while preserving its core essence. “When the rules change and the technology of race bikes are limited, it gives the opportunity for racers to have more control and rely less on technology. Racing is entertainment especially for the fans.”

6. Nurturing young talent. Lucio Cecchinello emphasized the importance of programs like the Asia Talent Cup in identifying and nurturing young and talented riders from the Asian region and the Philippines. He believes that such initiatives are crucial for the future of motorcycle racing in the region, including infrastructure such as world-class racetracks.

It was a short but sweet encounter. The team is hopeful that the Philippines could also host the MotoGP in the future.