QJ Motor is back in Moto2! The Chinese company, which had prematurely divorced Gresini before the end of the 2024 season following a controversy, has just made official its agreement with another team in the intermediate category. The MSI team, which propelled Ai Ogura to the title last year, will display a new logo on its machines.
The 2024 Japanese Grand Prix had hosted a controversy in the Moto2 paddock. After the victory of Manuel Gonzalez, Gresini's main sponsor, his team in the intermediate category had demanded his dismissal. Lis right? Wearing a hachimaki, the traditional Japanese ribbon, on the starting grid of the race in Motegi.
Associated with the Japanese military forces of World War II, this symbolic ribbon is an act of respect in Japan. However, it is not very popular in China, due to the severe repression suffered by the country during this period.
« BAlthough the act was unintentional on the part of Manuel Gonzalez, this behavior hurt the national feelings of the runners and the Chinese people, QJ Motor then published, escalating the incident to diplomatic proportions. We have requested that the images and videos in question be immediately deleted, and that the Gresini team end its cooperation with the driver. »
Surprised by the Chinese giant's statement, he first tried to verify the veracity of these threats, but did not terminate his rider's contract. The Chinese giant ended the agreement it had with the team. However, it seems that the company already misses Moto2, since it has chosen to partner with the MSI racing team for the 2025 season.
“A new era begins at QJMOTOR, publishes the company on its social networks. Get ready for the grand launch of our collaboration with MSi Racing Team! A new chapter in motorcycle innovation is about to unfold.”
A winning deal when you consider the success the team had last year, when it hired Ai Ogura and his teammate Sergio Garcia. By winning the drivers' and teams' titles, the team attracted big names into its nets and therefore decided to trust the Chinese company.
The deal between MSI and Mt Helmets is therefore over as far as Moto2 is concerned. The equipment manufacturer will however continue to sponsor the team's Moto3 structure. A team that will engage Angel Piqueras and Ryusei Yamanaka on its machines.
QJ Motor Msi Team Moto2 for the 2025 season:
Sergio Garcia and his new teammate, Ivan Ortola, the drivers of the QJ Motor Msi team for 2025 © Msi
© Msi
The Moto3 of the MT Helmets Msi team for the 2025 season:
Angel Piqueras and Ryusei Yamanaka, the MT Helmets Msi riders in Moto3 © Msi
© MSI
