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Sepang Test: Ai Ogura's Steep Learning Curve in MotoGP Debut

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Sepang Test: Ai Ogura's Steep Learning Curve in MotoGP Debut

Ai Ogura Impresses in Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test

Strong Debut for Ai Ogura in Trackhouse Racing

The engines roared to life at the Sepang circuit as MotoGP's shakedown test commenced, offering a steep learning curve for rookies like Ai Ogura. Surprisingly, the new Trackhouse Racing rider showcased remarkable performance from the outset, proving his mettle against seasoned competitors.

Day 1 Performance: Ogura's Initial Impact

The American-based Trackhouse Racing team, headquartered in Charlotte, wasted no time in putting their rookie, Ai Ogura, on the track at the start of Day 1. Riding one of the new 2025 RS-GP bikes, Ogura displayed an impressive blend of skill and adaptability. Meanwhile, Aprilia’s chief test rider, Lorenzo Savadori, was simultaneously fine-tuning the other Trackhouse machine.

Despite the private nature of this test, official timing data revealed Ogura’s competitive edge. The Moto2 World Champion led several sessions throughout the day. Even with only eight riders present on Day 1, Ogura’s comfort with his new machine was evident. He quickly dipped into the 2:00-minute range and concluded the day with a best lap of 1:59.8 minutes, securing the second spot, just 0.2 seconds behind KTM’s Pol Espargaro.

Progression from Initial Struggles to Strong Performance

Reflecting on his first encounter with the RS-GP in November, Ogura initially struggled to keep pace with MotoGP’s demands. A crash in Barcelona and a 2.2-second gap from Ducati’s Alex Marquez highlighted the challenges. However, the Sepang shakedown marked a significant turnaround.

Day 2 Developments: Ogura Narrows the Gap

The second day of testing under Malaysia’s scorching heat continued to be promising for Ogura. Despite a delayed morning session due to poor track conditions, Ogura managed to shave an additional second off his time. By the end of the day, he was approaching the 1:58-minute mark—comparable to KTM factory rider Brad Binder’s qualifying time at the last Malaysian GP.

Ogura’s performance placed him fourth overall in the time sheets, a testament to his rapid adaptation and competitiveness. The entry of Yamaha’s four factory riders added to the intensity, yet Ogura was only 0.169 seconds behind the fastest rider, Alex Rins.

Comparing Ogura with Fellow Rookie Aldeguer

Ogura’s performance was notably close to that of fellow rookie Fermin Aldeguer, who was riding the highly refined Ducati GP24. Despite this, Ogura’s Aprilia RS-GP—still in its developmental stages—held its own. The RS-GP had only managed a third-place finish in the 2024 Constructors' Championship, underscoring the significance of Ogura’s achievement.

Looking Ahead to Official MotoGP Tests

The true measure of Ogura’s and Aprilia’s competitiveness will be revealed when the full MotoGP grid assembles on February 5 for the official tests.

MotoGP Sepang Shakedown Test Results

February 1 Results:

  1. Alex Rins (ESP), Yamaha – 1:58.745
  2. Pol Espargaro (ESP), KTM – +0.003
  3. Fabio Quartararo (FRA), Yamaha – +0.067
  4. Ai Ogura (JPN), Aprilia – +0.169
  5. Fermin Aldeguer (ESP), Ducati – +0.185
  6. Jack Miller (AUS), Yamaha – +0.407
  7. Dani Pedrosa (ESP), KTM – +0.521
  8. Aleix Espargaro (ESP), Honda – +0.969
  9. Miguel Oliveira (POR), Yamaha – +1.035
  10. Taka Nakagami (JPN), Honda – +1.134
  11. Michele Pirro (ITA), Ducati – +1.423
  12. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA), Yamaha – +1.606
  13. Lorenzo Savadori (ITA), Aprilia – +2.176
  14. Somkiat Chantra (THA), Honda – +2.283
  15. Augusto Fernandez (ESP), Yamaha – +3.102

January 31 Results:

  1. Pol Espargaro (ESP), KTM – 1:59.661
  2. Ai Ogura (JPN), Aprilia – +0.171
  3. Taka Nakagami (JPN), Honda – +0.197
  4. Dani Pedrosa (ESP), KTM – +0.200
  5. Fermin Aldeguer (ESP), Ducati – +1.319
  6. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA), Yamaha – +1.516
  7. Michele Pirro (ITA), Ducati – +1.692
  8. Lorenzo Savadori (ITA), Aprilia – +4.091

Conclusion: Ai Ogura’s Promising MotoGP Future

Ai Ogura’s debut at the Sepang shakedown has set high expectations for his MotoGP career. His rapid adaptation to the Aprilia RS-GP and competitive lap times against experienced riders indicate a bright future. As the official MotoGP tests approach, all eyes will be on Ogura to see if he can maintain this impressive momentum.

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