{"id":1879826,"date":"2026-04-13T10:01:31","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T07:01:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1879826"},"modified":"2026-04-13T10:01:31","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T07:01:31","slug":"the-candidates-who-joins-trackhouse-if-ai-ogura-leaves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1879826","title":{"rendered":"The candidates: Who joins Trackhouse if Ai Ogura leaves?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>The candidates: Who joins Trackhouse if Ai Ogura leaves?<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Ai Ogura\u2019s reported departure from Trackhouse opens up one of MotoGP\u2019s top Independent seats for 2027.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Peter McLaren <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-13T11:01:31+01:00\">13 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Ai Ogura, 2026 US MotoGP.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>News that Ai Ogura is set to join the factory Yamaha MotoGP team alongside Jorge Martin next opens up an Aprilia seat at Trackhouse.<\/p>\n<p>Although nothing can be taken for granted in the new 850cc\/Pirelli era, Aprilia is currently riding a crest of a wave in MotoGP &#8211; winning all three grands prix and leading the riders\u2019, teams\u2019 and constructors\u2019 world championships.<\/p>\n<p>Trackhouse has shared in that success, with Raul Fernandez starting the season with a double rostrum at Buriram, while Ai Ogura was on course to claim a debut MotoGP podium until an engine issue at COTA.<\/p>\n<p>Despite that disappointment, both Trackhouse riders remain inside the world championship top seven.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The only non-factory team rider ahead of the Trackhouse duo is VR46\u2019s Fabio di Giannantonio. Trackhouse is also the top independent team, currently tied on points with Red Bull KTM for second behind the factory Aprilia squad.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In other words, Trackhouse is currently a highly competitive option. So, who might step in to fill the void left by Ogura?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Joan Mir, Alex Rins, Suzuki, Valencia 2020.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-df19be4228e0460fb900b49aa577adb18f56cbd7b94967225e263cf99e0733d9\">  Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports   Mick Doohan: \u201cWhat I don\u2019t understand is Ducati\u201d amid Aprilia MotoGP dominance <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>The Suzuki connection: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins, Joan Mir<\/h2>\n<p>During his time as a factory Suzuki team manager, Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio gave MotoGP debuts to three future stars: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins and Joan Mir.<\/p>\n<p>All took a first premier-class victory with Suzuki, with Mir going on to win the 2020 world championship.<\/p>\n<p>The trio remain in MotoGP and, like most of the grid, are yet to officially confirm their 2027 plans.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-2da2de8cec72cfac26586d1b023b922b5aa3200007852cb001fb3b5795190069\">  Ducati takes inspiration from rivals in rear aero battle   Aprilia duo \u201cso smart\u201d as team braces for MotoGP title fight tension <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>A reunion with Vinales, now a ten-time MotoGP winner on Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia machinery, would appear least likely, since the current Tech3 KTM rider left the factory Aprilia team at the end of 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Vinales was surprised to find out that Fabiano Sterlacchini would leave KTM and become Aprilia\u2019s technical director, but is now linked with joining the factory KTM team alongside Alex Marquez for 2027.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the future looks less clear for Rins and Mir.<\/p>\n<p>Ogura\u2019s Yamaha deal would be at the expense of Rins, with Jorge Martin already pencilled in to take over the seat vacated by Fabio Quartararo.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Mir looks to be out of a ride at HRC, which is rumoured to be placing David Alonso alongside Quartararo.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Both Rins and Mir have struggled to replicate the success they enjoyed at Suzuki.<\/p>\n<p>Rins, a five-time GSX-RR winner, added a Honda victory in only his third race for LCR in 2023, but suffered a bad leg break a few rounds later and hasn\u2019t finished higher than seventh since joining Yamaha the following year.<\/p>\n<p>Mir has remained a factory Honda rider since Suzuki\u2019s exit, enduring a nightmare number of DNFs before appearing to turn a corner with two podiums at the end of last season.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately for Mir, this season has started with more retirements, including the tyre issue in Buriram. However, Mir has also shown his raw speed with fifth on the grid at COTA and is consistently the fastest RCV rider.<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Manuel Gonzalez, Senna Agius, San Marino Moto2 2025.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>Rookies<\/h2>\n<p>Alternatively, having signed Ogura from Moto2, might Trackhouse look at the intermediate class again for his replacement?<\/p>\n<p>Signing a Moto2 rider makes even more sense for 2027, since they already have experience with Pirelli rubber and the MotoGP engine capacity is shrinking to only 85cc larger than the Triumph 765cc powerplants.<\/p>\n<p>Engine performance will obviously be much higher, but the physical size and weight of the new MotoGP machines will be closer to the corner-speed emphasis in Moto2.<\/p>\n<p>Assuming Dani Holgado and David Alonso have already secured MotoGP seats, and looking for a previous Trackhouse connection, the obvious candidate would be Manuel Gonzalez &#8211; given a surprise MotoGP debut test with the team at Aragon last season.<\/p>\n<p>Gonzalez, who finished Moto2 title runner-up to Diogo Moreira last season, also currently leads the 2026 world championship standings.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>On the other hand, the new Adelaide street circuit will be eager to have a home Australian rider on the grid for its 2027 MotoGP debut.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>That will help Jack Miller&#8217;s chances of staying at Pramac. But if not, might Gonzalez&#8217;s 20-year-old race-winning team-mate Senna Agius be an option at Trackhouse?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Luca Marini, Ai Ogura, 2026 Thai MotoGP.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>The Rossi connection (Luca, not Valentino)<\/h2>\n<p>Before Trackhouse and Suzuki, Brivio began his MotoGP management career at the factory Yamaha team, where he helped tempt Valentino Rossi from Honda, then oversaw the Italian\u2019s four titles between 2004 and 2010.<\/p>\n<p>Brivio then became a consultant for VR46 before setting up Suzuki\u2019s MotoGP return.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Rossi is long retired, but his younger brother Luca Marini &#8211; currently Mir\u2019s team-mate at HRC &#8211; looks to be on the market.<\/p>\n<p>Although Brivio has a reputation for spotting promising rookies &#8211; such as Vinales, Rins, Mir and Ogura, while keeping faith in Raul Fernandez &#8211; his past career also includes signing experienced riders, overlooked by other teams.<\/p>\n<p>Examples include giving future Aprilia race winner Aleix Espargaro his factory chance alongside Vinales in Suzuki\u2019s \u2018comeback\u2019 line-up, then signing Andrea Iannone after the Italian was dropped by Ducati.<\/p>\n<p>Might Brivio see Marini as another untapped asset, who has the experience, intelligence and hunger to take the Trackhouse project forward in an era of technical upheaval?<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Ai Ogura<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Trackhouse MotoGP Team<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Aprilia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2025-09\/gng_1261926_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-f7ba3c8a0240219123bfc9d972b516497d9a94cc8849533430b23ac955610307\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/picture-72168-1654791772.png?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/picture-72168-1654791772.png?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/picture-72168-1654791772.png?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Peter McLaren<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">MotoGP Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Peter has been in the paddock for 20 years and has seen Valentino Rossi come and go. He is at the forefront of the Suzuki exit story and Marc Marquez\u2019s injury issues.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-558404f1b1d008179b80d5231604f7b1600a4459ba50dcf1f9e3e4a1b5987905\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&#8220;Scary&#8221; Marco Bezzecchi MotoGP warning issued as Saturday issues contrast Sunday dominance<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775559291\"> 07\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304182_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Bezzecchi, Acosta, Martin, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Massimo Rivola makes big Aprilia MotoGP 2026 claim<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775203200\"> 03\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1299770_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marco Bezzecchi, Jorge Martin, Aprilia, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>MotoGP manufacturers \u201chappy\u201d after crunch Liberty meeting, 2027 rider deals imminent?<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775059194\"> 01\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304360_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Start, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Martin, Bagnaia in-car MotoGP chat: Ducati \u201clost something\u201d, Aprilia \u201cimproved braking\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775054154\"> 01\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1302925_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Martin, Bagnaia, Acosta, 2026 US MotoGP Sprint.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Aprilia hails Marco Bezzecchi\u2019s \u201cchampion\u201d response: A \u201cgreat sign\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775037712\"> 01\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304447_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marco Bezzecchi,2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Aprilia boss&#8217; &#8220;blood ran cold&#8221; after heartbreak US MotoGP retirement<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774878995\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1304404_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Ai Ogura, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Ai Ogura\u2019s reported departure from Trackhouse opens up one of MotoGP\u2019s top Independent seats for 2027.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>News that Ai Ogura is set to join the factory Yamaha MotoGP team alongside Jorge Martin next opens up an Aprilia seat at Trackhouse.<\/p>\n<p>Although nothing can be taken for granted in the new 850cc\/Pirelli era, Aprilia is currently riding a crest of a wave in MotoGP &#8211; winning all three grands prix and leading the riders\u2019, teams\u2019 and constructors\u2019 world championships.<\/p>\n<p>Trackhouse has shared in that success, with Raul Fernandez starting the season with a double rostrum at Buriram, while Ai Ogura was on course to claim a debut MotoGP podium until an engine issue at COTA.<\/p>\n<p>Despite that disappointment, both Trackhouse riders remain inside the world championship top seven.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The only non-factory team rider ahead of the Trackhouse duo is VR46\u2019s Fabio di Giannantonio. Trackhouse is also the top independent team, currently tied on points with Red Bull KTM for second behind the factory Aprilia squad.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In other words, Trackhouse is currently a highly competitive option. So, who might step in to fill the void left by Ogura?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Joan Mir, Alex Rins, Suzuki, Valencia 2020.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-df19be4228e0460fb900b49aa577adb18f56cbd7b94967225e263cf99e0733d9\">  Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports   Mick Doohan: \u201cWhat I don\u2019t understand is Ducati\u201d amid Aprilia MotoGP dominance <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>The Suzuki connection: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins, Joan Mir<\/h2>\n<p>During his time as a factory Suzuki team manager, Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio gave MotoGP debuts to three future stars: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins and Joan Mir.<\/p>\n<p>All took a first premier-class victory with Suzuki, with Mir going on to win the 2020 world championship.<\/p>\n<p>The trio remain in MotoGP and, like most of the grid, are yet to officially confirm their 2027 plans.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-2da2de8cec72cfac26586d1b023b922b5aa3200007852cb001fb3b5795190069\">  Ducati takes inspiration from rivals in rear aero battle   Aprilia duo \u201cso smart\u201d as team braces for MotoGP title fight tension <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>A reunion with Vinales, now a ten-time MotoGP winner on Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia machinery, would appear least likely, since the current Tech3 KTM rider left the factory Aprilia team at the end of 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Vinales was surprised to find out that Fabiano Sterlacchini would leave KTM and become Aprilia\u2019s technical director, but is now linked with joining the factory KTM team alongside Alex Marquez for 2027.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the future looks less clear for Rins and Mir.<\/p>\n<p>Ogura\u2019s Yamaha deal would be at the expense of Rins, with Jorge Martin already pencilled in to take over the seat vacated by Fabio Quartararo.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Mir looks to be out of a ride at HRC, which is rumoured to be placing David Alonso alongside Quartararo.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Both Rins and Mir have struggled to replicate the success they enjoyed at Suzuki.<\/p>\n<p>Rins, a five-time GSX-RR winner, added a Honda victory in only his third race for LCR in 2023, but suffered a bad leg break a few rounds later and hasn\u2019t finished higher than seventh since joining Yamaha the following year.<\/p>\n<p>Mir has remained a factory Honda rider since Suzuki\u2019s exit, enduring a nightmare number of DNFs before appearing to turn a corner with two podiums at the end of last season.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately for Mir, this season has started with more retirements, including the tyre issue in Buriram. However, Mir has also shown his raw speed with fifth on the grid at COTA and is consistently the fastest RCV rider.<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Manuel Gonzalez, Senna Agius, San Marino Moto2 2025.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>Rookies<\/h2>\n<p>Alternatively, having signed Ogura from Moto2, might Trackhouse look at the intermediate class again for his replacement?<\/p>\n<p>Signing a Moto2 rider makes even more sense for 2027, since they already have experience with Pirelli rubber and the MotoGP engine capacity is shrinking to only 85cc larger than the Triumph 765cc powerplants.<\/p>\n<p>Engine performance will obviously be much higher, but the physical size and weight of the new MotoGP machines will be closer to the corner-speed emphasis in Moto2.<\/p>\n<p>Assuming Dani Holgado and David Alonso have already secured MotoGP seats, and looking for a previous Trackhouse connection, the obvious candidate would be Manuel Gonzalez &#8211; given a surprise MotoGP debut test with the team at Aragon last season.<\/p>\n<p>Gonzalez, who finished Moto2 title runner-up to Diogo Moreira last season, also currently leads the 2026 world championship standings.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>On the other hand, the new Adelaide street circuit will be eager to have a home Australian rider on the grid for its 2027 MotoGP debut.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>That will help Jack Miller&#8217;s chances of staying at Pramac. But if not, might Gonzalez&#8217;s 20-year-old race-winning team-mate Senna Agius be an option at Trackhouse?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Luca Marini, Ai Ogura, 2026 Thai MotoGP.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>The Rossi connection (Luca, not Valentino)<\/h2>\n<p>Before Trackhouse and Suzuki, Brivio began his MotoGP management career at the factory Yamaha team, where he helped tempt Valentino Rossi from Honda, then oversaw the Italian\u2019s four titles between 2004 and 2010.<\/p>\n<p>Brivio then became a consultant for VR46 before setting up Suzuki\u2019s MotoGP return.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Rossi is long retired, but his younger brother Luca Marini &#8211; currently Mir\u2019s team-mate at HRC &#8211; looks to be on the market.<\/p>\n<p>Although Brivio has a reputation for spotting promising rookies &#8211; such as Vinales, Rins, Mir and Ogura, while keeping faith in Raul Fernandez &#8211; his past career also includes signing experienced riders, overlooked by other teams.<\/p>\n<p>Examples include giving future Aprilia race winner Aleix Espargaro his factory chance alongside Vinales in Suzuki\u2019s \u2018comeback\u2019 line-up, then signing Andrea Iannone after the Italian was dropped by Ducati.<\/p>\n<p>Might Brivio see Marini as another untapped asset, who has the experience, intelligence and hunger to take the Trackhouse project forward in an era of technical upheaval?<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>News that Ai Ogura is set to join the factory Yamaha MotoGP team alongside Jorge Martin next opens up an Aprilia seat at Trackhouse.<\/p>\n<p>Although nothing can be taken for granted in the new 850cc\/Pirelli era, Aprilia is currently riding a crest of a wave in MotoGP &#8211; winning all three grands prix and leading the riders\u2019, teams\u2019 and constructors\u2019 world championships.<\/p>\n<p>Trackhouse has shared in that success, with Raul Fernandez starting the season with a double rostrum at Buriram, while Ai Ogura was on course to claim a debut MotoGP podium until an engine issue at COTA.<\/p>\n<p>Despite that disappointment, both Trackhouse riders remain inside the world championship top seven.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The only non-factory team rider ahead of the Trackhouse duo is VR46\u2019s Fabio di Giannantonio. Trackhouse is also the top independent team, currently tied on points with Red Bull KTM for second behind the factory Aprilia squad.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In other words, Trackhouse is currently a highly competitive option. So, who might step in to fill the void left by Ogura?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_890948_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Joan Mir, Alex Rins, Suzuki, Valencia 2020.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-df19be4228e0460fb900b49aa577adb18f56cbd7b94967225e263cf99e0733d9\">  Yamaha set to deliver latest 2027 MotoGP rider market shock amid Ai Ogura reports   Mick Doohan: \u201cWhat I don\u2019t understand is Ducati\u201d amid Aprilia MotoGP dominance <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>The Suzuki connection: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins, Joan Mir<\/h2>\n<p>During his time as a factory Suzuki team manager, Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio gave MotoGP debuts to three future stars: Maverick Vinales, Alex Rins and Joan Mir.<\/p>\n<p>All took a first premier-class victory with Suzuki, with Mir going on to win the 2020 world championship.<\/p>\n<p>The trio remain in MotoGP and, like most of the grid, are yet to officially confirm their 2027 plans.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-2da2de8cec72cfac26586d1b023b922b5aa3200007852cb001fb3b5795190069\">  Ducati takes inspiration from rivals in rear aero battle   Aprilia duo \u201cso smart\u201d as team braces for MotoGP title fight tension <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>A reunion with Vinales, now a ten-time MotoGP winner on Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia machinery, would appear least likely, since the current Tech3 KTM rider left the factory Aprilia team at the end of 2024.<\/p>\n<p>Vinales was surprised to find out that Fabiano Sterlacchini would leave KTM and become Aprilia\u2019s technical director, but is now linked with joining the factory KTM team alongside Alex Marquez for 2027.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, the future looks less clear for Rins and Mir.<\/p>\n<p>Ogura\u2019s Yamaha deal would be at the expense of Rins, with Jorge Martin already pencilled in to take over the seat vacated by Fabio Quartararo.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Mir looks to be out of a ride at HRC, which is rumoured to be placing David Alonso alongside Quartararo.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Both Rins and Mir have struggled to replicate the success they enjoyed at Suzuki.<\/p>\n<p>Rins, a five-time GSX-RR winner, added a Honda victory in only his third race for LCR in 2023, but suffered a bad leg break a few rounds later and hasn\u2019t finished higher than seventh since joining Yamaha the following year.<\/p>\n<p>Mir has remained a factory Honda rider since Suzuki\u2019s exit, enduring a nightmare number of DNFs before appearing to turn a corner with two podiums at the end of last season.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately for Mir, this season has started with more retirements, including the tyre issue in Buriram. However, Mir has also shown his raw speed with fifth on the grid at COTA and is consistently the fastest RCV rider.<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1264797_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Manuel Gonzalez, Senna Agius, San Marino Moto2 2025.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2>Rookies<\/h2>\n<p>Alternatively, having signed Ogura from Moto2, might Trackhouse look at the intermediate class again for his replacement?<\/p>\n<p>Signing a Moto2 rider makes even more sense for 2027, since they already have experience with Pirelli rubber and the MotoGP engine capacity is shrinking to only 85cc larger than the Triumph 765cc powerplants.<\/p>\n<p>Engine performance will obviously be much higher, but the physical size and weight of the new MotoGP machines will be closer to the corner-speed emphasis in Moto2.<\/p>\n<p>Assuming Dani Holgado and David Alonso have already secured MotoGP seats, and looking for a previous Trackhouse connection, the obvious candidate would be Manuel Gonzalez &#8211; given a surprise MotoGP debut test with the team at Aragon last season.<\/p>\n<p>Gonzalez, who finished Moto2 title runner-up to Diogo Moreira last season, also currently leads the 2026 world championship standings.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>On the other hand, the new Adelaide street circuit will be eager to have a home Australian rider on the grid for its 2027 MotoGP debut.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>That will help Jack Miller&#8217;s chances of staying at Pramac. But if not, might Gonzalez&#8217;s 20-year-old race-winning team-mate Senna Agius be an option at Trackhouse?<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1296405_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Luca Marini, Ai Ogura, 2026 Thai MotoGP.<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>The Rossi connection (Luca, not Valentino)<\/h2>\n<p>Before Trackhouse and Suzuki, Brivio began his MotoGP management career at the factory Yamaha team, where he helped tempt Valentino Rossi from Honda, then oversaw the Italian\u2019s four titles between 2004 and 2010.<\/p>\n<p>Brivio then became a consultant for VR46 before setting up Suzuki\u2019s MotoGP return.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Rossi is long retired, but his younger brother Luca Marini &#8211; currently Mir\u2019s team-mate at HRC &#8211; looks to be on the market.<\/p>\n<p>Although Brivio has a reputation for spotting promising rookies &#8211; such as Vinales, Rins, Mir and Ogura, while keeping faith in Raul Fernandez &#8211; his past career also includes signing experienced riders, overlooked by other teams.<\/p>\n<p>Examples include giving future Aprilia race winner Aleix Espargaro his factory chance alongside Vinales in Suzuki\u2019s \u2018comeback\u2019 line-up, then signing Andrea Iannone after the Italian was dropped by Ducati.<\/p>\n<p>Might Brivio see Marini as another untapped asset, who has the experience, intelligence and hunger to take the Trackhouse project forward in an era of technical upheaval?<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/motogp\/feature\/1092972\/1\/candidates-who-joins-trackhouse-if-ai-ogura-leaves&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1301065_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] The candidates: Who joins Trackhouse if Ai Ogura leaves? Ai Ogura\u2019s reported departure from Trackhouse opens up one of MotoGP\u2019s top Independent seats for 2027. Peter McLaren 13 Apr 2026 Share Ai Ogura, 2026 US MotoGP. \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose Add as a preferred source News that Ai Ogura is set to join [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1879826","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1879826","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1879826"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1879826\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1879826"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1879826"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1879826"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}