Ai Ogura has been on an impressive path in the world of motorsports, standing out early in young talent competitions. His journey began in 2015 in the Asia Talent Cup, where he quickly showcased his skills by securing podium finishes and a second-place overall in the 2016 championship. This solid performance opened doors for him to the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, where in 2017, he climbed to the podium for the first time, demonstrating his promising potential.
His entry into Moto3 in 2019 with Honda Team Asia marked a new chapter in Ogura’s career. From the start, he proved to be a consistent competitor, accumulating podiums and victories that made him one of the favorites. In 2020, he was close to securing the title, after seven podiums, but ultimately finished in third place in the overall standings.
The transition to Moto2 in 2021 was a challenge that Ogura overcame with distinction. Despite it being his rookie season, he achieved significant podium finishes and ended the championship in eighth place, a result that hinted at even greater achievements to come.
The year 2022 was pivotal for Ogura. For much of the season, he led the Moto2 title fight, but a series of crashes in the final rounds prevented him from realizing his dream. However, in 2024, his determination was rewarded when he became the Moto2 World Champion, a historic achievement that made him the first former Asia Talent Cup participant to win a world title. Additionally, he became the first Japanese rider to win a world championship since Hiroshi Aoyama in 2009.
With this triumph, Ogura is now preparing to face a new challenge in 2025, joining the Trackhouse Racing team in MotoGP, where his experience and winning form promise to make an impact.