Miguel Oliveira, the Portuguese motorcycle racing star, is not only preparing for a 2026 switch to WorldSBK with BMW but is also rumored to be planning a return to MotoGP as a test rider for Aprilia. Despite his recent commitment to BMW, Oliveira’s hopes of staying connected to MotoGP remain strong, especially given his ongoing conversations with the Noale factory, home to Aprilia’s MotoGP efforts. This unexpected development keeps his MotoGP future very much alive as the Indonesian Grand Prix approaches.
Oliveira Opens Door to MotoGP Opportunities
As he anticipates the upcoming Indonesian GP weekend, Oliveira has conveyed a hopeful outlook regarding his MotoGP career prospects. He addressed the media with confidence, stating,
“Options remain for me in MotoGP,”
signaling that there are still paths available for him within the sport’s top tier. This statement has stirred interest among fans and teams who see potential for him to stay involved in premier class racing, albeit in a new capacity.
Aprilia’s Brivio Publicly Supports Oliveira’s Potential Role
Davide Brivio, the team principal of Trackhouse Aprilia, expressed his positive view on Oliveira’s suitability as a test rider. During the first practice session coverage in Indonesia, Brivio affirmed,
“Of course, we have worked with Miguel,”
before adding,
“He has a lot of knowledge and expertise, and is also a very sensitive rider. He will be a very good test rider from this point of view, so I would be happy if he could join Aprilia.”
This clear endorsement highlights Oliveira’s technical skills and adaptability, underscoring his value for Aprilia’s development program.
Challenges Facing Aprilia’s Team at Indonesian GP
The absence of Ai Ogura at the Indonesian Grand Prix complicates Aprilia’s weekend, as Ogura is sidelined due to a severe wrist injury sustained in a crash during the San Marino Grand Prix. Brivio acknowledged the setback, lamenting,
“It’s not ideal, especially in a rookie season, to get interrupted from the pathway to learn and to grow.”
With Ogura out, the responsibility to perform falls heavily on Marco Bezzecchi and Raul Fernandez, the only riders left to compete on the RS-GP machines this weekend.
Race Weekend Pressures Amplified for Aprilia
Brivio’s concerns extend beyond rider availability, as team strategy faces heightened difficulty in Indonesia. With three front tire selections to consider under challenging conditions, every choice carries significant weight. He commented,
“It’s already difficult, especially this weekend,”
revealing the tense atmosphere as the Trackhouse Aprilia squad navigates a demanding race weekend.
Oliveira’s Future and Impact on MotoGP
As the MotoGP season progresses, attention remains fixed on Miguel Oliveira and his possible return as Aprilia’s test rider. Should this materialize, it would mark a notable moment for the Portuguese rider, allowing him to leverage his experience and contribute to Aprilia’s competitiveness while maintaining a presence in the premier motorcycle racing league. The uncertainty surrounding his next steps also adds an edge of anticipation to the championship’s evolving narrative. For Oliveira, the opportunity represents a bridge between his past on MotoGP grids and a potential future backstage, shaping the sport from behind the scenes.
