Ai Ogura sets "no expectations" for her return to the track

The rookie, reigning Moto2 world champion and highly regarded since the start of the season, suffered a setback at the very start of the weekend at Silverstone. Ogura crashed during Free Practice 1, and while at first glance his injury didn't seem too serious, he was diagnosed with a fractured right tibia, obviously preventing him from taking part in the rest of the British Grand Prix weekend. The number 79 also didn't get the green light from doctors to travel to Aragon two weeks ago, to MotorLand where the eighth round of the championship was held.

Now, on the eve of the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, Ai Ogura has received the green light from the doctors and will be able to take to the handlebars of his Aprilia RS-GP from the Trackhouse team. The Japanese rider returns to competition without any particular goals, knowing full well that after nearly a month of enforced rest, he will not be at 100% and that his lack of knowledge of the advanced bike will not necessarily allow him to shine in the Tuscan hills.

“I’m just happy to be back in racing.”, he explained on the official MotoGP website. "I have no expectations for this weekend, the main thing is to get some riding time on the bike. Friday will be almost like a private test session for me!"

Ogura returns to a track that is not his favorite

Raúl Fernández's teammate also admitted that returning to a track like Mugello isn't necessarily a good thing. The Italian track isn't Ai Ogura's favorite, but he does admit it has a rather fun feel, with its banked chicanes, fast corners, and constant climbs and descents.

"I don't have any particular expectations, I'm just happy to be back, I'm looking forward to working with my team again. It's not my favorite track, but it's still very nice to drive here. We'll see how it goes." See you for a first assessment at the end of Friday, after two free practice sessions...

ALSO READ > Andrea Dovizioso takes on new responsibilities at Yamaha