The Unstoppable Ascent of Manu Gonzalez
After a frustrating denial of a MotoGP promotion last year, Manu Gonzalez has left no doubt about his readiness for the premier class. He currently commands the Moto2 championship standings, boasting three victories and six podiums across just seven races in 2026. This dominant run puts him a significant 34.5 points clear of Izan Guevara.
Despite losing the title last season due to a mix of bad luck and technical woes, Gonzalez wisely rejected lucrative offers to move to the World Superbike Championship. Instead, he committed to the Intact GP Moto2 project, proving his loyalty and single-minded focus on reaching MotoGP.
Trackhouse's Early Interest: The Aragon Revelation
The foundation for Gonzalez's impending MotoGP move was laid last year when Trackhouse extended a surprise invitation. Prompted by Davide Brivio and coinciding with Ai Ogura's injury, Gonzalez was offered a private test on the Aprilia RS-GP25 at Aragon.
This wasn't just a casual outing. Gonzalez completed a staggering 87 laps, clocking a best time of 1:47.832. This performance reportedly drew gasps of admiration from the Trackhouse garage, despite team insistence at the time that the test was purely circumstantial.
Gonzalez Speaks: "What More Can I Do?"
Following his commanding victory at Mugello this Sunday, Gonzalez himself articulated the obvious regarding his future: "I don't know if there is anything else I can do in Moto2." He acknowledged that while winning the title remains a goal, the MotoGP rider market moves fast, making proactive steps crucial.
While not directly confirming talks with Trackhouse, Gonzalez hinted at positive developments. "There are several things that are getting closer that are quite positive and I think that after today they will be even clearer, so I think something will be known soon," he stated, building anticipation for an official announcement.
The Shifting Landscape: Who's In, Who's Out?
If Gonzalez indeed joins the American outfit, it almost certainly signals the departure of Raul Fernandez. Despite his impressive sprint race victory at Mugello this Saturday, Fernandez is not among Trackhouse's top preferences for next year's lineup.
Speculation is rife that Gonzalez could partner with current Tech3 KTM rider Enea Bastianini for Trackhouse's 2027-2028 lineup, forming a potent new pairing. Back in Moto2, Alex Escrig is tipped to step into Gonzalez's shoes at Intact GP.
The 2027 season is shaping up to be a significant generational shift in MotoGP, with several other Moto2 talents poised to make the step up. These include Izan Guevara (expected at Pramac Yamaha), David Alonso (likely to Honda), and Dani Holgado (set for Gresini). Additionally, Senna Agius has a shot at a Tech3 seat, while there's also a minor possibility of Celestino Vietti getting the nod by VR46.
