Miguel Oliveira left his status as an official KTM rider to whom he brought more success than all his other brand companions, i.e. five, for a position in an entirely new Aprilia satellite team. Presented like this, it seems that the Portuguese is completely recovering, while demonstrating that he remains master of a destiny that he will decline to those who show him consideration. This last element seemed to be missing in his negotiations with the Austrians, rightly or wrongly, while on the Italian side, everything was done to make him feel desired. The first laps with the RS-GP only reassured the Portuguese about his choices. Identified as one of the drivers to follow in this 2023 season, he assures that if the planets align at Noale, sooner or later he will be in the brand's factory team...
A certainty, placed under the objective conditions of results and opportunity that Miguel Oliveira also puts in the balance, which remains a clear message for Aleix Espargaró et Maverick Vinales. The Portuguese will be a real source of motivation for the Spaniards, whose first city does not hide the fact that he sees himself doing two more seasons, at most. But nothing says that, in the event that the former KTM manages to upset the balance of forces at Aprilia in less than a season, things will not speed up…
In any case, when, on motogp.com, it was asked to Miguel Oliveira if he wanted the handlebars within the factory team, he first declared: “ the season hasn't started yet. Let's just focus on what we need to do ". However… “But, for sure, if it’s available and if I deserve it, I’ll take it ". If Miguel Oliveira has already shown himself to be so confident, it is because he has an excellent memory of his very first contact with the RS-GP in Valencia in November 2022: “ we always hope that the rider will be up to the task of the bike. I had this hope. I must say I felt good ».
Miguel Oliveira: “ it's a goal to be close to the guys at the factory«
However, he does not want to ignite: “ we must stay very calm with your feet on the ground, we know we have a lot of work to do in preseason. Starting the season strong is a goal but we have to keep in mind that it's a new team with a new rider, a new bike. We will build, for sure, because our speed and our solid base ».
Olive tree cannot, however, refrain from adding: “ The bike is completely new to me, but it suits my riding style. It would be great if I could be close to Aleix and Maverick Viñales in the first test. It's a goal to be close to the guys at the factory ».
For the days to come Sepang, he already has his work plan: “ we expect to test small things, not many. Our job is to build a foundation and understand what works for me and what doesn't. We will filter some elements ". A fundamental approach in which he includes his new teammate Raul Fernandez : " Raul is very young, fast and talented “, declared the Portuguese. “ He has the tools to show what he is capable of. We will do everything necessary to take Aprilia to the top together ". The RNF team, after the last two seasons where it was not considered by Yamaha , could well be talked about again with Aprilia.
