Ai Ogura’s decision to leave Honda pays off

Ai Ogura’s MotoGP debut in Thailand showcased his maturity and potential, proving he is ready to compete at the highest level.

Ai Ogura of Japan and Trackhouse MotoGP Team speaks with journalists during the media scrums in the media center during the MotoGP of Thailand - Previews at Chang International Circuit in Buriram on February 27, 2025. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Ai Ogura emerged as the breakout star of the 2025 MotoGP season opener, delivering a remarkable debut performance that took the paddock by surprise. The Japanese rider, who joined Trackhouse Racing for his premier-class debut, demonstrated composure beyond his years, battling fiercely with reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia throughout the Grand Prix of Thailand.

Trackhouse Racing has landed a future star, and Ogura’s attitude and work ethic have already won over his team. Unlike many MotoGP rookies, he has displayed remarkable maturity, avoiding costly errors while adapting seamlessly to the demands of the premier class.

His impressive performance in Buriram proved that he was more than ready for his promotion to MotoGP, showcasing a level of racecraft that defied his rookie status. Even among rival teams, Aprilia staff have reportedly been “so impressed” with Ogura’s approach, recognizing his work ethic as a key factor in his early success.

Before joining Trackhouse Racing, Ogura was a Honda-contracted rider in the lower categories and had previously turned down a MotoGP seat, hoping for a better opportunity. When Trackhouse made an offer, there were initial doubts over whether he would leave Honda, given his long-standing ties to the manufacturer.

However, Honda’s struggles in recent years made the decision easier. The Japanese manufacturer’s decline left Ogura with little incentive to stay, and when Trackhouse came calling, he wasted no time in making his move. His agent, Jordi Pons, revealed to Motorsport that Ogura needed just five minutes to decide on leaving Honda.

“Ai told me he needed five minutes. After that, he called me back and said he was in,” Pons stated. His swift decision highlighted the extent of Honda’s struggles, as one of their brightest prospects opted to jump ship in favor of a more competitive project.

Ogura’s form signals more success to come

Ogura’s sensational debut in Thailand was no fluke. His recent form has been exceptional, carrying momentum from his final Moto2 season into the premier class. Excluding a single retirement in the penultimate round of the 2024 Moto2 season, he has finished inside the top four in eight of his last nine races.

His ability to adapt quickly to the Trackhouse machine suggests that he will continue to challenge established names in MotoGP. While his debut race took place on a circuit where he had prior experience, his next challenge—the Argentina Grand Prix—could be tougher. Unlike Buriram, Termas de Río Hondo is a track where Ogura has had no prior testing on a MotoGP bike.

Argentina GP presents a new test for Ogura

MotoGP’s return to Argentina comes after a one-year absence due to financial issues in the country. As a result, many riders have limited or no premier-class experience on the circuit, leveling the playing field slightly. For Ogura, this will be an opportunity to prove that his strong debut was not track-dependent and that he can deliver results even on unfamiliar territory.

With his early performances turning heads across the paddock, Ai Ogura is already proving himself as one of the most exciting rookies in recent memory. If his trajectory continues, Trackhouse Racing may have secured a future title contender in the making.