Miguel Oliveira (Prima Pramac Yamaha), hit by Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini Ducati) during the Sprint in Argentina, must draw a line under the Grand Prix of the Americas on March 28-30 in Austin. The Portuguese, initially spared from fractures, suffers a sternoclavicular dislocation with a torn ligament, detected by MRI after his return home. Exit Termas, exit Austin, and an uncertain return for Qatar (April 11-13). Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez takes over in Texas, to the detriment of an initial plan in Superbike.
Miguel Oliveira, team driver Pramac Yamaha, will be absent from the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas, after the accident he suffered during the Sprint race in ArgentinaThe Portuguese, victim of a collision with Fermin Aldeguer (Ducati Gresini), is suffering from significant injuries that require recovery time. He will be replaced by Augusto Fernandez, the test pilot Yamaha , who thus makes his surprise return to MotoGP.
Miguel Oliveira commented: “ First of all, I would like to thank the team and doctors who treated me. After returning home, an MRI revealed a dislocated sternoclavicular joint with a torn ligament. We discussed the fastest recovery options, and it was decided to immobilize the arm for a certain time. The time of return is unpredictable, because we have to wait for my body's biological reaction. We will assess the situation every weekWe are working to get back on track as quickly as possible, but beyond that we are focused on my recovery and getting back to 100% fitness. ».
Augusto Fernandez, test pilot Yamaha , will therefore be called in as reinforcement to replace Olive tree in Austin. This decision implies a change of plans for the Spaniard, who was initially scheduled to participate in the World Championship Superbike in Portimao this same weekend, replacing Jonathan Rhea, hurt. Fernandez had prepared for this deadline during the Superbike tests in Portimao last week, but he will finally have to fly to the United States to make his return in MotoGP.
Augusto Fernandez: From R1 Superbike to M1 MotoGP, an unexpected turn
Gino Borsoi, team director Pramac, expressed his support for Olive tree while welcoming Fernandez. " I'm really sorry for Miguel's injury. Especially at a point in the season when he was gaining more and more confidence in his M1 and the team. Unfortunately, luck has not been on his side in recent years, but knowing him, I'm sure he'll react like the real fighter that he is and will come back strong and motivated as before. The most important thing now is that he receives the best possible treatment and can return to the race track as soon as possible. As for Augusto: Welcome to our team! Despite the short notice, I am confident that we can do a great job together, with the whole team ready to support him at any time. »
Augusto Fernandez also shared his feelings before this unexpected return to MotoGP. First of all, I would like to extend my best wishes for a speedy recovery to Miguel. I hope he can return soon. I would also like to thank Yamaha and Pramac for this opportunity. Austin is a great track, and I can't wait to get back on the M1. I'm looking forward to the race weekend. »
The package of Miguel Oliveira is a blow to the team Pramac Yamaha, who will have to rely on Augusto Fernandez to defend its colors at Austin. Waiting, Olive tree is focusing on his recovery, hoping to return in top form for the next events. Fernandez, it's a chance to shine again on the MotoGP scene, even if it means giving up his Superbike commitment.
