P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Five-time MotoGP race winner Miguel Oliveira may be heading for the exit door at the end of this season – The Race sat down with him to find out he’s processing that + how he views his career
Miguel Oliveira is the odd man out among the 2019 MotoGP rookie quartet, with Joan Mir, Fabio Quartararo, and Pecco Bagnaia all having won titles or back-to-back victories. Despite his five race wins, he has never fought for a championship due to the nature of MotoGP.
Unlike the other rookies, Oliveira’s future on the grid in 2026 is uncertain, with the existence of an exit clause in his contract becoming an open secret. This situation contrasts with the certainty of the other riders’ presence on the grid.
Oliveira’s unique presence extends beyond his uncertain future; as a sardonic, genial rider with a strong grasp of English, he stands out in the MotoGP spotlight. However, he feels ill-suited to the modern sportsman image, particularly with the growing push for social media engagement and off-track persona development in MotoGP.
Furthermore, Oliveira carries the weight of being the sole Portuguese rider in MotoGP, contrasting with the significant representation of Spaniards in the sport. While he appreciates the value of adaptation and evolving with the sport, he acknowledges the challenges of standing alone in representing his country on the international stage.
