Zarco: “We worked pretty well this afternoon” 

Having struggled more since the opening of the weekend in Aragon, Johann Zarco was surprised by a red flag in FP3. While chasing the time, the Frenchman was ultimately unable to climb among the ten residents directly selected for Q2.

Zarco therefore had to go through the repechage. “I didn't have much luck in FP3, because there was a yellow flag in the last corner of a lap where I was riding well, but that's in the past,” he said. We worked pretty well this afternoon. I did FP4 on tires that had 26 laps at the end, and the times weren't as bad as you might think. I hope that having done a session in such difficult conditions could have prepared me for the race. Q1 was difficult, but the 1'46.8 gave me confidence, and the 1'46.6 in Q2 saved the day. »

Even if the Ducati rider gives a positive assessment, he says he lacks something to make the difference. “I’m still upset because it’s not the way I want it,” he said. Is it possible to have what I want? I don't know, I try to do the best, but I feel that it doesn't respond to the feeling that I would like. The times are correct, but there is this “but” which is blocking it, because I feel that there is better to do. We see what Pecco does. You have to manage to stay calm while giving your all until it comes. »

 Starting fifth, the podium is possible for Zarco. “Ideally, the podium,” he said. But as there have been difficulties so far, I try to suppress them in my head, but you have to take what comes. Maybe there can be better, but aiming for a place like that is putting a lot of pressure on yourself. » 

Bagnaia, above the rest? 

Francesco Bagnaia has indeed taken pole position and the Italian is on a series of four victories in a row. “Pecco put himself in a good position to be able to manage his race, the tires, get in front and do his times,” Zarco said. Miller had a big step this morning and confirmed it, so I know he will be there for the podium. I was able to see Bastianini twice on the track and he is very comfortable. Aleix Espargaro did well in qualifying, but in terms of consistency, I rather see the Ducati. If I can stay in this Top 5, it will be good and it is possible with a good start to the race, then there will be a way to keep my place until the end. »