Argomenti trattati
Ai Ogura’s debut in MotoGP has been characterized by significant highs and challenging lows. His early performances, particularly during the Thai Grand Prix, showcased a promising future for the young rider, marking one of the most impressive starts by a rookie in recent memory. However, as the season unfolded, obstacles emerged that would test his resilience and determination.
Despite showing early potential, Ogura’s overall performance throughout the year did not consistently reflect the impressive heights of his debut. As a rookie, Ogura’s progress is best evaluated through his peak moments, yet subsequent crashes and setbacks overshadowed his initial success.
Initial success and rising concerns
During the early stages of the season, Ogura exhibited a clear advantage over his teammate, Raul Fernandez, particularly in the initial races. He consistently outperformed Fernandez in qualifying sessions, sprint races, and the main events. However, this early promise was soon clouded by a series of unfortunate incidents that defined his rookie experience.
The turning point arrived with a severe crash during practice at Silverstone, resulting in a fractured tibia that sidelined him for multiple races. Additionally, a hand injury sustained at Misano further limited his participation, forcing him to confront the physical and mental ramifications of his misfortunes. This sequence of events contributed to a growing sense of doubt within Ogura, leading him to question his capabilities.
Facing doubts and building resilience
Reflecting on his tumultuous season, Ogura acknowledged that the challenges he faced led to moments of self-doubt. “At one point, I thought maybe I’m not enough,” he revealed, underscoring the mental toll of the crashes and injuries. Nevertheless, he asserted that he was prepared for the harsh realities of MotoGP, always considering potential worst-case scenarios.
Despite the setbacks, team principal Davide Brivio remained optimistic about Ogura’s journey. Drawing from his own experiences with rookies in the past, Brivio emphasized the importance of learning from both successes and failures. He noted that Ogura’s season was filled with invaluable lessons that would ultimately serve him well in his future endeavors.
Areas for improvement in year two
As Ogura prepares for his second season, the focus shifts to areas where he can enhance and refine his skills. While his crash incidents were not excessively frequent, they highlighted a need for more consistent performance management throughout the race weekend. Ogura often struggled to establish his pace early in practice sessions, a critical factor for success in MotoGP.
One key area Ogura identified for improvement is his approach during time attacks. He recognized that simply pushing the bike does not guarantee speed; he needs to cultivate a more nuanced understanding of when to exert pressure and when to hold back. “I will work for that during the winter tests,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to refining his technique.
Looking ahead: a bright future
While predicting the development of a young rider can be uncertain, Ogura has demonstrated resilience and a realistic perspective on his challenges throughout the year. He has a history of overcoming obstacles, including a broken wrist prior to the 2025 season, which ultimately positioned him as a championship contender the following year.
With a renewed mindset and a clearer understanding of what to expect from the premier class, Ogura has the potential to emerge as a strong competitor in the upcoming season. His experiences from this past year, although challenging, will serve as a foundation for his growth and improvement in the highly competitive world of MotoGP.