MotoGP 2026: Raul Fernandez Under Pressure as Trackhouse Eyes Alternatives
Raul Fernandez’s future in MotoGP is increasingly uncertain, with signs suggesting that Trackhouse Racing may be preparing to move on from the struggling rider ahead of the 2026 season. Despite official statements to the contrary, recent testing decisions have raised questions about the team’s long-term faith in Fernandez.
During the recent MotoGP test at Aragon, Trackhouse put Moto2 points leader Manu Gonzalez on one of their bikes. Although the team claimed the move had nothing to do with their 2026 rider selection and pointed to Jorge Martin’s absence and Aprilia’s limited reserve options, analysts aren’t convinced.
Growing Doubts Within Trackhouse
MotoGP experts Lewis Duncan and Jordan Moreland highlighted on the Crash MotoGP podcast that Fernandez appears to be on borrowed time. Duncan remarked, “You can’t look at it as anything other than the patience with Raul Fernandez running out.”
Massimo Rivola of Aprilia recently stated at Silverstone that Fernandez had been “underperforming.” Despite showing promise in Moto2, Fernandez has failed to deliver results in the premier class, and expectations for improvement in 2025 have gone unmet.
Lackluster MotoGP Record
Now in his fourth season in MotoGP—and his third on an Aprilia—Fernandez’s numbers tell a troubling story. In 2024, he finished 16th overall. In the current 2025 season, he sits 19th in the standings, with his best result being a 7th-place finish at Le Mans. He’s managed just two top-10 finishes all season.
Critics argue that while he had a stellar run in Moto2, he hasn’t outperformed any teammates or fellow Aprilia riders since joining MotoGP. Even riders on underperforming bikes have found ways to flash potential—something Fernandez has yet to consistently show.
Manu Gonzalez: A Rising Threat
Trackhouse’s decision to let Gonzalez test their MotoGP bike is seen by many as more than just a stopgap. With Gonzalez currently leading the Moto2 championship and impressing across the board, the young Spaniard is quickly becoming a top contender for a MotoGP seat.
Moreland summarized the sentiment bluntly: “It looks like they’re testing out people.”
Contracts Offer Little Protection
Though Fernandez holds a contract for 2026, recent MotoGP history suggests that deals offer little security. Riders like Miguel Oliveira have seen multi-year agreements torn up in favor of fresher options. Duncan emphasized: “Just because Fernandez has a contract for next year, it doesn’t save him.”
Trackhouse’s success with rookies like Ai Ogura may further inspire a willingness to take a chance on Gonzalez, especially when current performances fall short of expectations.
Trackhouse Stands Firm — For Now
Despite mounting speculation, Trackhouse publicly insists it still has confidence in Fernandez. However, with limited results and the shadow of rising talent looming, the pressure is clearly mounting.
Unless Raul Fernandez can turn his season around quickly, his spot on the 2026 MotoGP grid could very well be in jeopardy.