MotoGP, Lucio Cecchinello: “the Honda bosses will be at Motegi and we all have a lot of pressure”

The atmosphere is tense at Honda as the latest innovations made to the RC213V have not given the expected results. Lucio Cecchinello, the owner of the LCR Honda team, remains cautious and prefers to wait until the end of the work plan to draw conclusions. During an interview with DAZN at Silverstone, Cecchinello admitted that Honda’s situation is critical, despite the considerable efforts made by the factory.

« They work hard. Since 2006 we have been working with Honda, and we have never seen so much equipment or so many engineers involveds. They are making a big effort, but it is true that we are not getting the result we want, ” said Cecchinello. He pointed out that the brand’s changes have improved lap times, but the improvement is so minimal that it’s hardly noticeable. “ What is certain is that we improved our time compared to last year, but the rest of the board does too. We have to push harder to get closer »

Honda has implemented an extensive work program with the hope of presenting the first updates to the bike during the second half of the season. “ It is expected that for the second half of the season new aerodynamic parts, a new engine and chassis will arrive. This plan is clear and the objective is to finish the season with a more competitive bike. Honda bosses will be in Motegi and we all have a lot of pressure, ” added Cecchinello.

The deep crisis that Honda is a major challenge for the team and its drivers. THE Japanese Grand Prix next October is set as an objective to evaluate the effectiveness of the measures adopted. Despite difficulties, Honda enjoyed success with his victory at the 8 hours from Suzuka, a ray of hope for the team. “ Both for him and for Johann Zarco, a victory always motivates. It is important for Honda to see some light in a race that is always important for them. All that’s missing is MotoGP, ” said Cecchinello.

As for the future, Lucio Cecchinello revealed that the decision on the second bike would be made in Austria. “ Ogura was HRC’s first choice, but now they are talking to Nakagami or Somkiat Chantra. What is certain is that this second motorcycle will be intended for an Asian rider., ” concluded Cecchinello.