Manuel Gonzalez, the standout leader of the 2025 Moto2 World Championship, has confirmed he will remain in the intermediate class for the 2026 season, continuing his partnership with the Liqui Moly Dynavolt IntactGP Team. This decision marks a crucial chapter in Gonzalez’s career, as he prepares for his fourth year in Moto2 with the goal of emulating legends such as Johann Zarco, the last rider to win the Moto2 title and stay in the class back in 2016. The move underscores Gonzalez’s intent to firmly establish himself at this level while pursuing the coveted championship.
Impressive Performance Across 2025 Puts Gonzalez in Strong Contention
Gonzalez has delivered a remarkably consistent and competitive performance throughout the 2025 Moto2 season. Following two years with the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team and a year at Gresini, the Spanish rider has dominated the current championship, securing four race wins and reaching the podium five more times over fourteen race weekends. Reflecting on his progress, Gonzalez shared,
“This year has been amazing so far, fighting for wins and podiums, leading the championship,”
expressing his satisfaction with the season’s results. He added,
“I’m super excited to continue working with this team. It has been a really good journey, and we will keep pushing our 100 percent one more year.”
This level of commitment and positivity highlights Gonzalez’s strong rapport with his team and his drive to improve further.
Missed MotoGP Opportunities Redirect Gonzalez’s Focus Back to Moto2
Despite being viewed as a promising candidate for promotion to the MotoGP World Championship in 2026, Gonzalez was unable to secure a spot with any top-tier teams. His test of the Aprilia RS-GP with Trackhouse Racing raised hopes for a possible MotoGP debut, but the American outfit ultimately decided to retain their current riders, Ai Ogura and Raul Fernandez, leaving no room for Gonzalez. Prospects with other teams also did not materialize; whispers of a contract with LCR Honda faded when Diogo Moreira was confirmed for the satellite team, and suggested negotiations with Pramac Yamaha similarly fell through. These developments have directed Gonzalez’s attention toward consolidating his career in Moto2 rather than stepping up to MotoGP immediately.
Continuing Legacy and Ambitions Amid Shifting MotoGP Dynamics
Gonzalez’s choice to stay in Moto2 comes amid a fluctuating landscape in the premier class, where even highly skilled riders can sometimes be overlooked for promotion. Nevertheless, his sustained success and unwavering determination position him to challenge history by becoming the first Moto2 champion in nearly a decade to remain in the category rather than moving up to MotoGP. As the 2026 season approaches, Gonzalez prepares to face fresh challenges with a clear objective: to secure the Moto2 world title and cement his name among the sport’s greats.
Outlook for 2026 and Beyond in Motorcycle Racing
Fans and experts alike eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, recognizing that Manuel Gonzalez’s journey is far from complete. His persistence and ambition to reach the pinnacle of motorcycle racing fuel expectations for an exciting 2026 campaign. Observers will be watching closely to see if Gonzalez can transform his Moto2 dominance into a historic championship run, solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s most promising talents. His story exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence amid the competitive world of motorcycle racing.
