Ogiwara leads the charge as the ATC hits Lusail — here’s what to watch for in Round 2
After an electric season opener in Thailand, the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup (IATC) shifts gear and heads to the Middle East for Round 2 at the Lusail International Circuit, held from 11th to 13th April alongside MotoGP™.
Ogiwara on a roll
Two from two. That’s the story for Ryota Ogiwara, who arrives in Qatar with a perfect score after two edge-of-your-seat wins in Buriram. The Japanese rider proved cool under pressure, fending off Seiryu Ikegami by just 0.054s in Race 1 and an even tighter 0.022s in Race 2. Ogiwara leads the standings and brings serious momentum into Lusail.
Rivals rising
Ikegami pushed Ogiwara to the limit in both races and is clearly a threat again. Rookie Haruki Matsuyama impressed with a P4 in Race 1 and a debut podium in Race 2, showing he’s learning fast.
Home hero Noprutpong Bunprawes made Thailand proud with a podium in Race 1 and a strong fourth in Race 2, while Alfonsi Daquigan, Badly Ayatullah, and Tanachat Pratumtong were in the mix across the weekend too.
New challenges in the desert
Lusail brings a fresh challenge. The fast and flowing layout, combined with the dry, sunny conditions of the Qatari desert, will test the entire grid. It’s a different kind of circuit, where slipstreaming and late braking count for plenty—and with so many riders already showing pace, it’s anyone’s guess who’ll come out on top.
Track action begins Friday, 11th April, with Race 1 on Saturday and Race 2 on Sunday, both streamed live. Don’t miss a moment as the Road to MotoGP™ rolls into Qatar!
