This invention relates to a hydrodesulfurization catalyst, a method for preparing the catalyst, and a method for the preparation of low sulfur gasoline fuel with minimal loss of RON. The catalyst particles include a group VIB metal and a support material having relatively high surface area, and optionally includes one or more group VIIIB metal. The method for preparing the catalyst allows for greater loading of the active metal species on the surface of the support material under aqueous reaction conditions.