ARBOLINO SIGNS TWO-YEAR DEAL TO LEAD FORWARD’S MOTO2 PROJECT

Tony Arbolino will stay in Moto2 for at least two more seasons, signing a two-year deal to lead Forward Racing’s factory project from 2027.

The Italian said the move was guided by his feelings as well as the team’s ambition. “I’m really excited about this new adventure, and I made this decision with my heart,” he said. Arbolino added that the project had motivated him from the outset and that he had sensed “great energy and genuine enthusiasm” within the team. “I will give 110% and I’m convinced that I’ve made the right choice,” he said, describing the partnership as a story they could build together. He thanked those who helped bring the deal about and said he could not wait to begin.

The signing gives Forward a new lead rider after Alex Escrig’s move to Italtrans. Forward has made a marked step forward in 2026: Escrig took the team’s own chassis to fourth in Brazil, then secured its first podium in more than a decade at Silverstone. The team has collected 63 points so far this season, compared with four in 2023, ten in 2024 and 28 last year.

Forward representative Martina Cuzari said Arbolino’s experience, speed and motivation suited the team’s values. She called the agreement a new chapter and a sign of Forward’s commitment to a solid, ambitious project, adding that the team was ready to pursue its goals with professionalism and determination.

Arbolino’s career has taken several turns in recent seasons. He finished second to Pedro Acosta in the 2023 championship, then fell to tenth in 2024, the year Pirelli replaced Dunlop as Moto2’s tyre supplier. In 2025 he left Marc VDS and Kalex for Pramac Yamaha and Boscoscuro, scored a podium at COTA and ended the season 19th overall.

He returned to Kalex machinery with Fantic this season. His best result so far is fifth, though he was fighting for victory at Silverstone before crashing. The incident disappointed his close friend Fabio Quartararo, according to the report. Arbolino now joins a Forward outfit whose recent results suggest it is building momentum, and will take over as its leading rider for the next stage of the project.