Two rising talents, Ryota Ogiwara from Japan and Alfonsi Daquigan from the Philippines, are set to make their debut in the 2026 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. Both riders have been selected by Dorna following strong performances in their respective championships last season.
Source: MotoGP
Ogiwara, the 2025 Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup champion, had a dominant year. He won the first four rounds of the season undefeated and added two more podiums in Round 6, finishing the season as the standout rider in the series. His consistent speed, racecraft, and mental strength under pressure have earmarked him as one of the most exciting young talents in Asia.
Source: Honda PH
Daquigan, meanwhile, had an equally impressive season in the Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup. The Filipino rider was consistently among the top finishers throughout the year, capped by a double victory in Indonesia and another podium at Sepang. His results earned him third overall in the championship and made him the first rider from the Philippines to earn a place in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.
Their move to the Rookies Cup represents a significant step on the Road to MotoGP. The competition has historically been a launchpad for future stars, providing young riders with experience on world-class tracks, exposure to international teams, and the opportunity to measure themselves against the best in their age group.
Source: Red Bull
Ogiwara and Daquigan will join a highly competitive field of young talents, each looking to make a name for themselves and continue their journey toward the premier class. Their selection underscores their progress, discipline, and potential to become future MotoGP contenders.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on these two riders as they take their first steps in the Rookies Cup, carrying the hopes of Japan and the Philippines on the international stage. Congratulations to Ryota Ogiwara and Alfonsi Daquigan on this milestone achievement.
