The 2025 MOTO2 season for Manuel Gonzalez was marked by highs and lows. Despite encountering two races without points, he still led the championship by three points after seven rounds, positioning himself as a potential contender for promotion to MotoGP in 2026. However, uncertainty looms regarding Jorge Martin’s future with Aprilia. Martin, the reigning premier class champion, has indicated he may leave at the end of 2025. This uncertainty complicates Gonzalez’s path from World Superbike to MotoGP, especially after his recent crash at Silverstone while trying to make up for a poor start.
Historically, riders like Fabio Quartararo have secured MotoGP seats with limited success in the lower classes, but Gonzalez’s strong performances—six pole positions and five podium finishes, including three wins in the first seven races—come at a challenging time. TNT Sports MotoGP analyst Neil Hodgson pointed out the limited opportunities in MotoGP, with only two or three seats potentially available. Hodgson highlighted ongoing speculation about Martin’s future at Aprilia, suggesting that if Gonzalez doesn’t move up next year, he might have to wait until 2027 when most contracts expire. He added that if a MotoGP opportunity arises, Gonzalez might have to be patient and wait another year.
Another TNT Sports expert, Michael Laverty, echoed this sentiment, expressing uncertainty over Gonzalez’s chances for 2026. With only five MotoGP seats potentially open—three with Honda, one each with Yamaha and Ducati—and incumbents like Morbidelli and Jack Miller holding their own, Laverty doubts how Gonzalez’s move would happen despite his strong form. He emphasized that Gonzalez’s “passport works against him,” implying that nationality might play a role in the opportunities available, but advised him to keep pushing.
Gonzalez’s riding style in 2025 differs from previous Moto2 champions like Ai Ogura and Pedro Acosta, who were notably aggressive. Instead, Gonzalez rides with a smoother, more refined technique. Hodgson believes this approach could translate well to MotoGP, drawing parallels to Marc Marquez’s transition from Moto2 to MotoGP due to his exceptional adaptability. According to Hodgson, Gonzalez’s silky smooth style suits bikes like the Aprilia well, marking him as a special talent.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for racing fans as it highlights the intense competition and limited opportunities for rising stars transitioning into MotoGP, a reality that shapes the future of the sport. Gonzalez’s journey underscores the blend of talent and timing necessary to break into the premier class, making it a storyline to follow closely in the coming seasons.
