Monster Yamaha’s Johann Zarco is aiming for a a podium at this weekend’s MotoGP round at Motegi - the track where he claimed his first Grand Prix race win and maiden Moto2 championship.

The Frenchman currently lies sixth in the championship chase and is easily at the top of the independents’ championship. Zarco said he a top five is a target but the podium is also within reach.

“It is a circuit that I like and the corners are nice, plus there are some hard braking areas. I have fond memories of Motegi because I won my first race in the 125cc class there and I also secured the 2015 Moto2 World Championship at that round,” said Zarco.

“I believe that I can be fast at this track with the Yamaha, but the team and I must work well. I think we will start with a solid base because we have a lot of references from the factory team. Then, I aim to give the maximum that I can and I really hope to be able to stay with the leading group. I would like to fight inside the top five, and why not go for the podium? It would be amazing to achieve this in Japan.”