Cal Crutchlow heaps praise on Pedrosa-like Ai Ogura in MotoGP

Retired MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow has been impressed by Japanese rider Ai Ogura's performances this season, comparing her to 31-time grand prix winner Dani Pedrosa. Ogura has shown marked improvement in qualifying pace alongside his signature late-race speed, marking a significant step forward in his sophomore season with Trackhouse Aprilia.

Despite a strong start to the season, Ogura's title challenge was dented by a crash at Silverstone and a training injury that ruled him out of the Aragon GP. Crutchlow, who raced alongside Ogura during his substitute appearances for the injured Johann Zarco, would have chosen Ogura as the leading challenger to reigning champion Marc Marquez.

Ogura's ability to extend the life of his tires and attack in the closing stages has made him a formidable rider in 2026. With his qualifying results often leaving him too far down the grid initially, Ogura has worked on his one-lap pace to become a more complete package. Crutchlow praises Ogura's riding style, noting that he takes longer to activate the tires but has more left at the end of the race compared to other riders.