Miguel Oliveira Opens Up About Future Opportunities in MotoGP

Miguel Oliveira, a celebrated figure in the world of motorcycle racing, has recently indicated that he is not closing the door on a potential test role in MotoGP for the year 2026, despite his upcoming commitment to the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) next season. After losing his seat with Pramac Yamaha for the upcoming MotoGP season, following the contract extension of Jack Miller and the signing of Toprak Razgatlioglu, Oliveira has secured a one-year deal with the factory BMW team in WSBK.

Oliveira’s Transition to WSBK

As he prepares for the Indonesian Grand Prix, Oliveira has expressed that he remains open to the idea of returning to MotoGP in a testing capacity. There are rumors suggesting that Aprilia may be interested in bringing him on board, depending on their testing schedule. "I don’t want to say goodbye yet, because there is this slight – maybe remote – chance, but who knows what could be possible in terms of the calendar," Oliveira commented when asked about the possibility of participating in testing for a MotoGP team.

Oliveira believes that maintaining a connection with MotoGP bikes could be beneficial for his development as a rider. "It would be a huge improvement for me as a rider to still be in touch with the GP bike. It can definitely help me to stay in shape for the WSBK," he added. Although WSBK involves different machinery, he emphasized that the skills and techniques learned on a MotoGP bike could be advantageous for his performance in the Superbike category.

Challenges Faced by Aprilia

This year has been particularly challenging for Aprilia in terms of development, primarily due to a shortage of riding resources. The team has faced significant setbacks, as Jorge Martin has struggled with injuries throughout the season. Additionally, Ai Ogura, who is set to join Martin on the sidelines at Mandalika, has also been affected by injury. As a result, Aprilia has had to rely heavily on its sole dedicated test rider, Lorenzo Savadori, who has filled in for various races this season.

The Importance of Racing for Oliveira

Oliveira has confirmed that there was a test-rider offer from a MotoGP team even before he signed with BMW. However, his passion for racing took precedence over other potential opportunities. "The decisive factor for me was the desire to compete. That fire is still very much on, and the only way I could do it was in World Superbike. So, what I tried to do was to look for the best competitive tools to do it. BMW felt like the right option for me," he explained.

His commitment to racing in WSBK is driven by a deep-seated desire to compete at a high level, and he believes that this opportunity with BMW provides him with the best platform to showcase his skills.

Keeping the Door Open for MotoGP

While Oliveira is focused on his new role in WSBK, he has not ruled out the possibility of returning to MotoGP racing in the future. "I don’t say the ultimate goal is to come back. But for sure I leave the door open because MotoGP has been my life for the past 15 years of my racing career. So you don’t close the door and lock it completely, you know? There’s a door open for sure. And who knows what the future can hold for me if things go well in Superbike," he stated.

This sentiment reflects Oliveira’s long-standing relationship with MotoGP, which has shaped his career and provided him with numerous memorable experiences. While he is excited about his new journey in WSBK, he acknowledges the impact that MotoGP has had on his life and career.

Another Rider’s Move to WSBK

Oliveira is not the only MotoGP rider transitioning to WSBK. Recently, Somkiat Chantra, who currently races for LCR Honda, announced that he would be joining the factory Honda team. Chantra, who has faced challenges during his rookie season with Lucio Cecchinello’s satellite team, has been aware for some time that he would be losing his seat to Diogo Moreira in 2026. This new opportunity allows him to remain within the Honda family and join fellow Moto2 champion Jake Dixon in the works team.

The move signifies a strategic shift for both Oliveira and Chantra as they seek new challenges and opportunities in different racing environments. With the competitive nature of both MotoGP and WSBK, riders often need to adapt and evolve to maintain their standing in the sport.

The Future of Motorcycle Racing

As the world of motorcycle racing continues to evolve, the paths taken by riders like Oliveira and Chantra illustrate the dynamic nature of the sport. With emerging talents and established stars navigating their careers, the landscape of motorcycle racing is always shifting. Riders must remain agile, both on and off the track, to seize opportunities as they arise.

Oliveira’s journey from MotoGP to WSBK is a testament to his resilience and commitment to the sport. His experiences in MotoGP have equipped him with invaluable skills and insights that he will undoubtedly bring to his new role with BMW. As he embraces this new chapter, the potential for a future return to MotoGP remains an exciting prospect for both him and his fans.

Conclusion

In the world of motorcycle racing, transitions are commonplace, and each rider’s journey is unique. Miguel Oliveira’s decision to compete in WSBK while keeping the door open for future MotoGP opportunities reflects the intricate balance of ambition and adaptability that defines the careers of professional racers. As he embarks on this new adventure with BMW, fans will be watching closely to see how he leverages his experience and skills in the highly competitive environment of World Superbike.

With the ever-changing dynamics of the racing calendar and the evolving landscape of motorcycle racing, both Oliveira and Chantra are poised to make their mark in new arenas while leaving the door open for possible returns to MotoGP in the future. The excitement of racing continues to drive these athletes, and their stories will undoubtedly inspire both current and aspiring riders in the years to come.