Fifth at Misano ‘very important to rebuild some confidence’ - Zarco

Following five difficult MotoGP races, Pramac Ducati rider Johann Zarco enjoyed a much needed return to the top ten at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. 

Zarco, who qualified in tenth managed to gain five positions overall and finish four seconds off the podium in fifth. 

Although the Pramac rider was slightly fortunate to claim fifth as Miguel Oliveira, Jack Miller and Francesco Bagnaia all crashed while comfortably ahead, it was somewhat of a return to the early season form we witnessed. 

The French rider had struggled in previous rounds due to arm pump, but following surgery ahead of COTA, the final two rounds in Portimao and Valencia should see Zaro fighting towards the front, especially after regaining ‘some confidence’ at Misano. 

"I’m pretty happy. I was very constant during the whole race which was very important for me to rebuild some confidence," added Zarco. 

"Clearly conditions were maybe not easy because we got so many crashes. I also got the benefit of these crashes because step-by-step I was gaining positions. 

"But also the feeling with the group was good, I was enjoying it with the other guys, I was overtaking and as I said, I was very constant. 

"Physically I was feeling good, which is positive going forward. There were many positive and important things to take. Also, for the championship it has been a good Sunday for me." 

In terms of the battle for fourth, ten points now separate Zarco, Miller and Marc Marquez in the championship.