Honda lost out on elite talent despite offering him ‘significantly more money’ than their rivals

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Honda once lost out on an elite talent despite offering him ‘significantly more money’ than their rivals.

Since the 1990s, Honda have been involved in the premier class of Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

Over the years, big-name riders such as Mick Doohan, Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez have all represented the Honda team. Currently, they are stuck in a bit of a rut as they sit fourth in the constructors’ standings.

Back in 2024, Honda were hit by a major departure as talented rider Ai Ogura decided to leave the Japanese outfit for Trackhouse Aprilia to move up to MotoGP. Since then, the Japanese rider has secured one podium finish for Trackhouse, but Ogura is set to join Yamaha ahead of the 2027 season.

Davide Brivio claims Ai Ogura could have earned ‘significantly more money’ at Honda

Speaking recently to Speedweek, Trackhouse team boss Davide Brivio stated that he was surprised by Ogura’s decision to leave Honda back in 2024.

The Italian claimed that Ogura could have earned ‘significantly more money’ at Honda, but praised the 25-year-old’s decision to choose passion over financial gain.

Brivio said: “Yes, I was surprised because Honda had supported him throughout his career, but in my opinion, this decision shows his attitude. His desire to find a motorcycle with which he could achieve results.

“A decision driven more by passion than by financial gain. I believe he could have earned significantly more at Honda than with us. But Aprilia seemed to suit him better, and he chose Aprilia.

“But the thing is, he had already left the Idemitsu team in Moto2 to join a Spanish team. He’s someone who makes his own decisions.”

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Ai Ogura reflects on ‘incredible’ first MotoGP podium at French Grand Prix

Last weekend, Ogura secured his first-ever podium as a MotoGP rider after finishing third behind Aprilia factory pair Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin.

The 25-year-old also became the first Japanese rider to stand on the podium in MotoGP since Katsuyuki Nakasuga at the 2012 Valencia Grand Prix.

Reflecting on his achievement, Ogura said, as per Autohebdo: “What can I say, it’s incredible! The race was tough. I tried to attack from the start, but I lost a few positions and had to fight my way back up. 

“It wasn’t an easy race, but I had a good pace at the end. I’m so happy for my mechanics and my team, we’re going to celebrate!”