Ai Ogura achieved something for Trackhouse that no one else managed during MotoGP’s Sepang shakedown

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Ai Ogura was in fine form during the first test of his MotoGP career for Trackhouse Racing, showcasing some impressive speed and consistency.

The reigning Moto2 champion claimed three race victories on his way to a crown with the MT Helmets MSI team in 2024.

Satellite Aprilia outfit Trackhouse decided to give him an opportunity alongside Raul Fernandez after a tricky first season in the sport.

They took over RNF Racing’s spot on the grid after 2023 and recorded a best result of sixth at the Catalan Grand Prix.

Ogura should benefit from reigning champion Jorge Martin’s move to Aprilia, whose experience and raw speed should be able to help bring more performance to all of their bikes.

Trackhouse couldn’t even afford a photographer for their 2025 bike launch and held a very low-key launch in North Carolina, USA. They’re also effectively funded by team principal Justin Marks, which isn’t sustainable.

Ai Ogura was the only MotoGP rider to complete a ‘simulation’ at Sepang shakedown

Having Ogura within their ranks may be one of the most promising aspects of Trackhouse’s operation in 2025.

He finished the third and final day of running in Malaysia in fourth place, just four-tenths from 2021 champion Fabio Quartararo at the top of the pile.

Although his one-lap pace seemed impressive, it was something else he managed which no one else did which may be an advantage heading into the official test later this week.

READ MORE: Raul Fernandez slams Aprilia decision that ‘didn’t help’ Trackhouse rider

Giovanni Zamagni was impressed after Ogura was the only rider to run a shortened race simulation run, managing 17 laps on his bike with great pace.

“Ogura was the only one who did a sort of simulation. He did 17 consecutive laps with a very good pace,” said Zamagni.

“Then in this period, it’s always like this, no? During the test, the pace is always better than the one the best Aprilia rider had in the last Grand Prix.”

MotoGP fans were all saying the same thing after Trackhouse unveiled their 2025 livery

The 2025 season has brought a major change to the outfit’s bikes. They will no longer field an American-flag-inspired livery.

Instead, they have brought a striking new theme to their machine, with a bright blue and a hint of yellow and black.

Fans said Trackhouse’s livery has similarities with Suzuki’s after their launch in January, nearly three years after the Japanese manufacturer left the sport.

READ MORE: Who is Trackhouse Racing rider Ai Ogura? Everything you need to know from height to career stats

They will be hoping that it brings a change in fortunes for both riders this season, and perhaps Raul Fernandez in particular who has been retained for another year despite some poor results in 2024.

It means that he’s under more pressure than his new teammate Ogura to perform, otherwise he may find himself without a ride for 2026.