Ai Ogura’s rumored Yamaha deal is a ‘slap in the face’ for Japanese rivals Honda.

But after finishing 6 in the first five games of 2026. Ogura In Martin he was given the opportunity to become the MotoGP World Champion. The 25-year-old could be on course for his first premier class podium in Austin before retiring due to mechanical failure.

Ai Ogura joins George Martin at Yamaha!

How do you rate your 2027 lineup?

Ai Ogura from Honda is injured – again

Ogura refused a seat in the LCRHonda’s satellite team, and chose to make its MotoGP debut at the Trackhouse. He was part of their program throughout his time in Moto3 and Moto2.

They said they were excited about the idea of ​​signing Ogura if another opportunity arose reaping. Indeed, Honda can have six bikes If negotiations with Tech 3 succeed next year.

However, in another ‘slap in the face’ for HRC, it decided to join forces with its Japanese rivals. Ogura ran away Honda Two years ago he was willing to join the Yamaha team, partly because he had doubts about their project but was cut at the back of the field.

What made the difference might be the promise of instant factory status. Honda is signing David Alonso. From Moto2 to become Fabio Quatararo’s teammate next year.

Honda’s 2027 rider plan after the latest Ai Ogura snub

That Quartararo and Alonso could form the factory line-up Johann Zarco and Diogo Moreira are locked in the LCR. Both signed multi-year deals through 2025.

Some Honda people were not happy about Zarco’s extension But there is no indication that they will back out of the deal.

The availability of additional seats is dependent on the outcome of the Tech3 talks. Honda can give Luca Marini a lifeline If you come to terms with Guenther Steiner’s squad.

Marini was a contender for the Yamaha seat before they chose Ogura instead. Meanwhile, Joan Mir could be going to Trackhouse. As a replacement for the Japanese driver.