Ai Ogura Admits Best Result in First Race "Killing Him" Mentally in MotoGP 2025?

MotoGP, Sportrik Media – Rookie rider Ai Ogura admits that his best result in the 2025 MotoGP debut season came in the opening race, and it is "killing him" because it sparked significant doubts about his true potential.

The Japanese rider, 2024 Moto2 world champion, joined Trackhouse Racing as a surprise signing. However, he immediately impressed in the season opener in Thailand, securing fifth in the main grand prix at Buriram along with another top-five sprint finish.

This strong start positioned Ai Ogura as a favorite for the rookie of the year award. Furthermore, several solid early results reinforced those expectations.

Yet, Ogura failed to build on the Thailand highs due to multiple injuries and inconsistent form until the closing rounds.

“It was quite the opposite,” he explained when asked if recalling Buriram boosted his confidence.

“And that's killing me, because my best result was in my first race: it was something special. And in the following races I started to wonder if that was my true potential or not. But the last race went quite well, and there were also several top 10 finishes.”

Ogura added: “During this season, at one point, I thought maybe I wasn't good enough, but then I started riding the bike well.

“After the injury, especially during the difficult times, I had doubts. But in the last two grand prix, I've had some very good races. So now I see a bright future. This is good.”

He branded his debut MotoGP year as “nothing special”, noting that “nothing has surprised me” about the season.

“There's nothing special to say about my first year in MotoGP. Just races, lots of crashes and injuries. Although it's been a difficult year, there are still many positives. I'm very happy to have finished my rookie season, and I'm looking forward to the second one.”

“To be honest, nothing has surprised me. I always think about the worst-case scenario, so nothing surprises me.”

Deeper analysis reveals serious injuries, including a broken leg requiring surgery and missing races like his home grand prix at Motegi, as major setbacks. Meanwhile, teammate Raul Fernandez at Trackhouse Racing achieved a breakthrough victory in Australia.

On the other hand, rookie rival Fermin Aldeguer delivered more consistency to claim rookie of the year. Additionally, Aprilia showed competitive potential, though Trackhouse Racing as a satellite team faced adaptation challenges.

Ogura ended the standings in 16th with 89 points, including eight top-10 finishes. Yet, strong late-season form offers optimism for 2026, where he remains under contract.

Ogura's future prospects hinge on physical recovery and further RS-GP development, with his tyre-conserving style potentially a strength in new regulations.