Trackhouse Team Manager Davide Brivio confirmed Ai Ogura intends to leave the team at the end of the current MotoGP season.
The Japanese rider is currently competing in his second season in MotoGP after Trackhouse signed him up for the 2025 season and has earned a best race finish of fifth.
However, the partnership is expected to end at the conclusion of Ogura’s current contract, which runs to the end of the season.
Ogura has reportedly signed a deal with Yamaha to become one half of its factory lineup for the 2027 campaign.
Although the move is yet to be officially confirmed, Brivio revealed that the Japanese rider told the team about his intentions to leave at the end of the season.
“Ai has told us he’s not continuing with us next year; it’s not for me to say where he’s going,” Brivio told MotoGP’s world feed during FP at the Spanish GP.
“So yes, we potentially have one spot available for next year.”
Asked about who they’re looking to contract to replace Ogura, Brivio hinted that Trackhouse will turn to a rider with experience.
2020 World Champion Joan Mir has been rumoured to be the front runner to replace Ogura and won his title alongside Brivio at Suzuki.
“I always like to work with rookies and to see them growing up,” said the Italian.
“I feel that in the moment where Trackhouse is now, with this competitive bike, and we can try to aim for good results, it’s a time to try and get an experienced rider ready to go for the podium and to maybe try and win races.
“It looks like the bike can allow this to happen. It’s time to use this potential.”
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