Source: Supplied.

Ajo Motorsport’s Johann Zarco will head to MotoGP next season as the first rider in the era of Moto2 to clinch back-to-back championships, following a well-deserved sixth win of the season at Sepang.

Zarco will step up to the premier class in 2017 with Monster Yamaha Tech3, claiming a second-career Moto2 title with a round to spare and now setting his sights on Valencia’s no-pressure final race.

“It’s great to be the first two-time Moto2 World Champion and it’s hard not to cry at a moment like this,” Zarco said. “It was a good race in wet conditions for me, as although I was not the fastest, I had a good pace and could follow Franco [Morbidelli].

“Then the track began to dry out and, like yesterday in qualifying, I felt a lot better than my rivals, found my line and was able to find references. It is great to take the win and the title. A lot of things went through my mind on the last three laps and I had to be very focused, but the advantage of three seconds made me more confident, if not calmer.

“I want to thank the Ajo Motorsport and everyone who has supported me. I love all my family and also my ‘motorcycle family’ and wish the best for them. It is very nice to be world champion for the second time with them.

“This title has been more exciting than last year’s, because the situation was different, it was harder and I had more pressure on me. Now it’s time to celebrate with everyone and go to Valencia without pressure.”

Team manager Aki Ajo commented: “It’s hard to find the words today – it has been a fantastic day here in Malaysia. When we started the project in Moto2 two years ago I would never have imagined that we would win the title twice in consecutive years.

“As everyone knows, winning the second title is even more difficult mentally than the first, which is why it is something really special. I am very grateful to have a rider like Johann, the whole team we have, the partners, everyone around us. It is difficult to find the way to express my gratitude at being part of this project, with so many wonderful people around it. Thank you.”