Miguel Oliveira secured 12th place in the Sprint race of the Dutch Grand Prix, after showing a strong start at the Assen circuit. The Portuguese rider impressed early on by advancing several positions quickly, but his performance was hindered by the Yamaha’s limitations on the track’s more technical corners. This difficulty prevented Oliveira from fully capitalizing on his solid launch despite his evident race pace.
Technical Challenges on Assen’s Difficult Corners
At the beginning of the Sprint race, Oliveira moved up five or six places, displaying promising speed. However, the Yamaha’s lack of competitiveness became clear in the demanding turns nine, ten, and eleven, where the bike struggled to match the pace of Oliveira’s closest rivals. These corners proved critical, as the Yamaha could not maintain the speed needed to challenge the riders ahead, causing Oliveira to lose momentum.
Frustration Over Missed Overtaking Opportunities
Despite feeling faster than some riders ahead, Oliveira grew frustrated by his inability to close gaps in crucial parts of the track. He specifically pointed out the final chicane as his best chance to pass competitors such as Brad Binder and Johann Zarco but failed to get close enough. Oliveira’s disappointment was apparent as he reflected on the race, describing the experience as “very frustrating” given how often he was blocked from making progress.
“My race, very good start. I managed to gain about five, six positions, and everything was going very well,” —Miguel Oliveira, Rider
“I couldn’t get close enough to overtake in the final chicane because that was really the best place for me to pass. And I felt faster than the guys ahead of me, especially Brad Binder and Johann Zarco, but I just couldn’t get close enough to overtake.” —Miguel Oliveira, Rider
“It was very frustrating” —Miguel Oliveira, Rider
Gathering Insights to Improve for the Main Race
Although Oliveira was disappointed with his finishing position, he considered the Sprint race valuable for understanding how his bike performed under tire wear conditions. The feedback collected during the session is expected to help fine-tune the Yamaha’s electronics ahead of Sunday’s main event. Oliveira remains focused on turning these learnings into improved race pace and better cornering performance in the full race.
Looking Ahead to Sunday’s Race at Assen
Miguel Oliveira’s initial burst at the Dutch Grand Prix highlighted his potential to compete strongly, but Yamaha’s difficulties on Assen’s complex corners remain a challenge. The ability to adapt and improve the bike’s handling throughout Sunday’s race will be crucial if Oliveira wants to climb further up the results. His experience and constructive approach after the Sprint race could make a meaningful difference in overcoming the current limitations and fighting for a higher finish.
