Trackhouse rider Ai Ogura secured a top 10 finish in the Mobility Resort Motegi race by competing in a tough battle. The Japanese rider did not make the top 10 in the MotoGP standings while riding the Honda Hausstreci, but he gained points at the end of the race and moved up in the standings.
Race Details
Ai Ogura put in a tough race on the first day of the Mobility Resort Motegi. The Japanese rider competed on the low-traction Honda Hausstreci and did not make the top 10 in the MotoGP riders. Nevertheless, Ogura moved into Q2 at the end of the race, achieving a result better than 11th place in the starting grid. This was a great source of joy for Ogura's fanbase. The rider with number 79 was considered a strong fifth place during the sprint. However, despite a very good ride, the results were determined by three leaders retiring due to an error by Alex Marquez.
Moto2 Champion Performance
Although the Moto2 champion in 2024 had to miss the last race, he showed an impressive performance in this race. Ogura started with Moreira, Di Giannantonio, and Zarco immediately in the top positions. Later, the Japanese rider, who returned after injury in Austria, engaged in a three-way battle with teammate Raul Fernandez and KTM rider Pedro Acosta. In this three-way battle, Ogura's position determined the fifth place in the race.
Rider Comments
Ai Ogura commented on his position during the race: ">When I passed Pedro, I was also a bit faster than Raul before me. I had a plan, but I couldn't execute it – because of Pedro. He pulled alongside and overtook me again."
Furthermore, Ogura stated regarding Raul Fernandez: ">When I was behind Raul again, he managed to keep his pace until the finish line; he rode very well, zero mistakes. That stressed me mentally. Sixth place is acceptable, but for the fans, it could have been better. I am already looking forward to the Heim Grand Prix next year – that motivates me."
Ogura shared his views on tire debates before the race: ">It was quite special here. I think many riders still assumed the medium tires would be used even in the warm-up. Then it became hard for everyone – which was good. I cannot complain, and the track condition after the race was flawless."
In conclusion, Ogura's achievement of fifth and sixth place in Japan resulted in a rise in the overall standings with Fabio Di Giannantonio failing to score points. Ogura finished fifth in the India GP with 239 points.
Statistics
- Archive: Ai Ogura Heimrennen: Missed High Expectations (October 1, 2026)
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Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
