AGIUS SEES DIRT-TRACK ROOTS LINKING HIS STYLE TO STONER’S
19 Oct 2026·
Senna Agius is preparing to join MotoGP in 2027 with ambitions that reach well beyond simply making the step up. The Australian believes his dirt-track background gives him something in common with Casey Stoner, the two-time premier-class champion whose distinctive riding style was shaped by racing on low-grip surfaces.
“Casey was known for his personality on and off the bike, and his riding style was second to none,” Agius told MotoGP.com. “His skill on a motorcycle and the way he rode, I relate it because my skillset comes from the same place at home, being dirt track.”
Agius is not suggesting that Stoner’s achievements will be easy to match. For now, he said, winning as many world championships and earning similar respect are hopes for the future. Stoner retired 14 years ago, but remains a prominent figure in MotoGP for his flair and unconventional technique.
The 2027 rookie has already had an early taste of the machinery he will race, riding a MotoGP bike at the post-race test in Austria earlier this year. The experience left a strong impression. “The thing was an animal,” he said, recalling how the bike’s speed, gearbox and braking forces surprised him.
“On the first lap, I was completely blown away about everything, about the physics of the bike, even about the gearbox,” Agius said. He was particularly struck by the braking: “You feel all the forces on the straight, being so fast, but then when you brake you also feel the same amount of force to stop!”
When he arrives on the grid, Agius will be the only Australian rider. He wants to give fans at home someone to support and make his country proud, while targeting the title of rookie of the year.
“I want my country to be proud of me,” he said. “It’s important to me. I just want to do my best for my country.” He added that he has set himself several goals because he feels capable of achieving them, and wants to look back on his debut season knowing he gave everything and adapted as quickly as possible.
Agius is also conscious of the pressure that comes with a premier-class debut, but sees it as something to embrace. “Pressure is a privilege for this one and I’ll do my best,” he said.