Manu Gonzalez to make MotoGP testing debut for Aprilia at Aragon

Aprilia will give Manuel Gonzalez his MotoGP debut during the collective test taking place this Monday at Aragon, Autosport understands.

The Madrid-born rider, current leader of the Moto2 World Championship with the Intact GP team, will step in at the test for Ai Ogura at Trackhouse, Aprilia’s satellite squad. This weekend, the American outfit will field only Raul Fernandez at Motorland while waiting for the recently operated Ogura — recovering from surgery on his left leg — to return, potentially in time for the Mugello round in two weeks.

Manuel Gonzalez, Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP

Photo by: Gold and Goose

Gonzalez, 22, has emerged as the rider to beat in the early stages of the intermediate class season, racking up three victories and five podiums in the first seven rounds of the calendar.

As a result of his strong performances, Aprilia and Trackhouse have decided to offer him the chance to ride a MotoGP prototype in Monday’s test session.

Manuel Gonzalez, Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP

Photo by: Gold and Goose Photography / LAT Images / via Getty Images

It’s understood that this test should not be interpreted as a confirmation of Gonzalez stepping up to the premier class next season. However, the day will undoubtedly serve as a prime opportunity to assess how he might handle such a promotion.

Alongside the Spaniard, Aprilia will also test with Marco Bezzecchi, currently the brand’s top performer given Jorge Martin’s injury, which has limited the reigning world champion to just one race in the first seven rounds. Raúl Fernandez — Ogura’s teammate at Trackhouse — is also expected to take part, as is Lorenzo Savadori, who has had to step up his testing duties to fill in for the sidelined #1 rider.

Gonzalez made his Grand Prix debut directly in Moto2 in 2021, following a stint in the junior ranks of WorldSBK. In 2022, during his first full World Championship season, he raced for the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp team, securing three top-five finishes. His first career win came last year in Japan, racing with Gresini in a weather-affected Grand Prix.