Cal Crutchlow gets Misano test as potential Johann Zarco stand-in

Cal Crutchlow is being given a test by the LCR MotoGP team on Wednesday, as he is trialled as a stand-in for Johann Zarco, Motorsport has learned.

The Frenchman got injured 10 days ago in a heavy crash at Barcelona, and is waiting for the right moment to undergo surgery on his left leg.

The prospect of Crutchlow racing in a grand prix again reflects Honda’s lack of stand-in options. Motorsport understands test rider Takaaki Nakagami is fully focused on the development of next year’s new 850cc prototype. Meanwhile, Aleix Espargaro is still recovering from one of the worst crashes of his career, which occurred less than a month ago in a private test at Sepang.

Crutchlow won’t be alone on track in Misano, with test riders of other manufacturers in action over Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Briton retired from full-time racing in 2020, coincidentally with LCR. He achieved all three of his victories in the premier class with the team. He then signed a test rider deal with Yamaha, contesting several grands prix, both with satellite outfit Petronas Racing Team and the factory team.

Crutchlow also took part in the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix as a wildcard – his last race to date. The Englishman should have participated in the Italian and British grands prix in 2024, but a hand injury prevented him from doing so.