Johann Zarco slated to return to MotoGP in September after knee injury

French MotoGP rider Johann Zarco suffered a serious knee injury in the Catalunya crash. Initial MRI scans suggested multiple ligament tears, but a later examination in Lyon by Dr. Bertrand Sonnery‑Cottet showed the medial collateral ligament (MCL) healing well, the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) improving, while the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remains torn. Zarco has opted against surgery, continuing a non‑surgical rehabilitation programme. The Castrol Honda LCR team confirmed he will miss the upcoming German, British and Aragon Grands Prix and is expected to be fit for a return in September, with the San Marino round likely his first race back. During his absence, the team recruited former rider Cal Crutchlow as a substitute. Crutchlow, initially reluctant, has already raced the German Grand Prix and may appear in further events such as Italy, depending on the recovery of other riders.