Davide Brivio Faces New Challenge with Ai Ogura’s Move to MotoGP: Navigating the Threat of Factory Teams

Davide Brivio, known for his keen eye for future MotoGP stars, is preparing for challenges that come with nurturing new-talent. The Italian, who previously played a pivotal role in the careers of race winners Maverick Viñales and Álex Rins. During his tenure at Suzuki, Brivio focused on developing 2020 world champion Joan Mir, but now. At Trackhouse, he is concentrating on nurturing promising riders.

Brivio has secured a place for Moto2 title contender Ai Ogura at the satellite Aprilia team for the 2025 season. Emphasizing that signing a rookie is a-long-term commitment with no immediate expectations, Brivio is aware of evolving landscape in MotoGP.

Unlike his previous experiences with Suzuki, Brivio now faces the added ‘danger’ of factory teams potentially targeting Trackhouse’s promising riders if they excel.

“It’s not easy to integrate a rookie into the team, as we know next year will be about giving him time to adjust without expecting immediate results,” Brivio explained. “We need to allow Ogura to gain experience and look for signs of his potential. Like a standout Free Practice session or a solid qualifying performance.”

Brivio acknowledged the risks involved in this decision. As an Independent team, Trackhouse faces the challenge of losing talented riders to factory teams if they demonstrate exceptional ability.

“At Suzuki, we focused on developing future factory riders, but now, as an Independent team, situation has changed,” Brivio said. “If Ogura shows his potential, there is a risk that factory teams might try to poach him from us.”

He added, “Our goal is to create a supportive environment for both Ogura and his teammate, Raul Fernandez. We aim to maintain a competitive bike and convince them to stay with us for as-long as-possible, despite the challenges.”

Ogura is expected to join the MotoGP grid next year alongside other rookies, with Fermin Aldeguer likely confirmed at Gresini and Somkiat Chantra tipped for LCR.

Brivio’s strategic approach reflects both the opportunities and risks of nurturing new talent in a competitive sport where factory teams are always on the lookout for emerging stars.