Manu Gonzalez, the standout rider in Moto2, is facing an intriguing dilemma as he navigates the transition to MotoGP. While his performances have been exceptional, with a 18.5-point lead over his competitors, the question remains: why isn't he being considered for a MotoGP seat?
Gonzalez's current situation is a fascinating one. He has consistently outperformed his rivals, with a 46.5-point gap to David Alonso and a 55.5-point gap to Dani Holgado, both of whom are expected to join MotoGP with Honda and Gresini Ducati, respectively. Yet, despite his impressive results, he has not been offered a MotoGP contract. This raises a deeper question: is it a matter of opportunity, or is there a more systematic approach at play?
One thing that immediately stands out is the lack of interest from MotoGP team managers in the intricacies of Moto2 rider performances. Many decisions on who to promote in recent years have been scattershot and spur-of-the-moment, but Gonzalez's case seems to be different. His performances have been linear and impressive, and he should have already been champion last year. However, the eventual title collapse need not be a primary consideration in scouting a rider for MotoGP.
The issue may lie in Gonzalez's age and experience. Of the riders in the top 11 in the standings in Moto2 right now, only Celestino Vietti has more Moto2 starts. And of those same riders, only Vietti and Alonso Lopez are older than 23-year-old Gonzalez. This raises a valid point: how much of a factor is Gonzalez's extra experience in his current edge over his competitors?
The answer may lie in Vietti's established MotoGP structure relationship, which could get him over the line. Gonzalez's Spanish passport has also been a hindrance in the past, and it's true that he would surely waltz onto the MotoGP grid with his current results were he from a more under-served market. However, these are just part of the full puzzle.
Gonzalez himself remains focused on his performances and continues to push himself every day. He believes that time will put him in the place he deserves, and he is committed to improving and pushing himself to the limit. His current '100%' is already MotoGP-worthy, and it would be very good to have him on the premier class grid in 2027.
However, if it doesn't come off, there would be a certain logic to it. The situation is not necessarily unjust - just unlucky. The lack of interest from MotoGP team managers may be a sign of a more systematic approach, and Gonzalez's age and experience may be a factor in the decision. Ultimately, the question remains: will Gonzalez's dream of racing in MotoGP come true, or is it a case of when, not if?
