Source: Supplied.

Johann Zarco completed his rookie MotoGP season last weekend at Valencia in Spain by securing his third podium of the year, rewarding him with sixth in the world championship standings.

The Monster Yamaha Tech3 rider challenged eventual winner Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda) right to the chequered flag, falling short of a maiden victory by a mere 0.337s.

Zarco says he’s pleased he was competitive to fight for victory in Spain, stating it’s the best way to finish off what has been a thrilling season for the Frenchman.

“I am so happy about today because I was competitive enough to fight for the victory,” Zarco commented. “And like I said yesterday, I knew I can do this because I have all of the elements that I need to go for the win. When I felt Marquez, who was really strong, I had things under control but I didn’t want to let him take the advantage and run away.

“He had to control it too, yet, I was thinking about the victory and possibly overtaking again and then I passed him. This is why I am pretty happy and finishing first or second doesn’t change anything about the race quality that I did.

“I can enjoy this moment and it must be pleasing for Dani also. He overtook me in a good way on the last lap, at the first corner and he then waited a bit and I couldn’t enter the corner effectively. I lost too much distance and when I tried to catch him again, I almost crashed. Nevertheless, this second place finish is the best way to finish my season.”

Zarco will return to the Valencia circuit today for the first 2018 pre-season test, while next year’s championship will commence on 18 March at Losail International Circuit in Qatar.