Gresini Moto2 Team to Race Unbranded After QJMotor Dispute

Gresini Moto2 team has confirmed it will race ‘unbranded’ after Manuel Gonzalez upset title sponsor QJMotor by wearing a traditional Japanese headband on the grid at Motegi.

Gonzalez went on to secure his first-ever Moto2 win but it was overshadowed by the incident which led to QJMotor apparently demanding his release from the team with immediate effect.

Gonzalez was seen wearing a hachimaki which caused offence as it was an item of clothing linked to Japan when it attacked China during World War II, but Gresini has stood its ground and held onto the promising Spaniard.

However, as a sign of respect towards China, Gresini has admitted it will race unbranded as discussions to resolve the matter continue with QJMotor.

A statement from the team said: “Motegi also staged an incident that involved Manuel Gonzalez who wore a Japanese headband during the starting grid.

“Such an act - although unintentional - eventually hurt the sensibility of the Chinese people. QJMOTOR and GRESINI RACING are now running a positive discussion and it is expected that everything will be solved very soon.

“As a form of respect towards China, Gresini Racing Moto2 Team will race unbranded the remaining four rounds of the current season.”

For his part in the incident, Gonzalez has again apologised for causing any harm to the Chinese people.

Gonzalez added: “First and foremost, I’d like to give my sincere apologies to everyone who felt offended by my grid pictures in Japan. It was never meant to be a political message, but only a set of pictures related to the city hosting the race.

“This was never intended as a lack of respect or an offensive gesture to the Chinese people, it was an unwitting and involuntary gesture that I regret. I’d like to apologise once again, hoping to receive your forgiveness and support. Thank you.”

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