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Ayumu Sasaki’s Moto2 career is set for a fresh start as he joins RW Racing GP for the next two seasons, partnering with Zonta van den Goorbergh. This move follows a tumultuous debut season in Moto2 that left the young Japanese rider at a crossroads.
RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP has secured the Japanese’s signature, marking a significant step forward for the team. Sasaki inked a contract with team manager Jarno Janssen that guarantees his spot in the 2025 and 2026 Moto2 World Championships.
In their official statement, RW Racing GP confirmed their ongoing collaboration with German chassis manufacturer Kalex, continuing their competitive strategy. Under the leadership of Janssen, a former GP rider himself, the team is currently fielding both van den Goorbergh and Belgian rider Barry Baltus.
The young Dutch talent recently showcased his potential with a fifth-place finish at Motegi, achieving his best result in Moto2 so far thanks to a smart tire strategy. Meanwhile, Baltus, who started the season strong with a podium finish but couldn’t maintain that form, is expected to depart RW Racing, likely heading to Fantic Racing.
For Sasaki, joining a well-established team like RW Racing GP represents a vital opportunity to revive his career. After a promising 2023 season in Moto3, where he finished as runner-up with Intact GP, Sasaki’s transition to Moto2 has been fraught with difficulties, marked by crashes and a challenging debut season with the Mastercamp VR46 team.
Early setbacks and team restructuring left him struggling, currently placing him 27th in the championship standings having scored just four points.
Expressing his gratitude, Sasaki stated, “I’m really thankful for the chance to race for RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP over the next two seasons. I feel I’m growing stronger and adapting better to the Moto2 class with each race. I’m eager to continue my progress next year and am excited to work with the team. Thank you to everyone who has supported me.”
Team manager Janssen highlighted the team’s confidence in Sasaki’s talent, saying, “We’re looking forward to taking on this new challenge with Ayumu. He’s a rider we’ve admired for years and possesses immense talent. A two-year contract is crucial for us to cultivate our partnership and achieve success together. Welcome aboard, Ayumu!”
With Sasaki’s signing, the Moto2 lineup for the upcoming GP season is increasingly taking shape. The only remaining teams yet to confirm their riders are Mastercamp Yamaha, which will transition to Pramac Racing in 2025, and Honda Team Asia.
