Aprilia’s Radical Overhaul Pays Off with Podium Finishes
Aprilia has made significant changes to its V4-powered contender over the winter, with a renewed focus on aerodynamics. These changes have allowed works riders Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales to score podium finishes in Qatar and Portugal, respectively. As a result, they have emerged as contenders for victory in the highly competitive MotoGP series.
However, while the factory team has seen success with the new bike, Trackhouse rider Miguel Oliveira has struggled to replicate their results. Despite having the latest-spec RS-GP at his disposal, he currently sits in 14th place in the standings after the first two rounds.
Oliveira’s lack of progress has been frustrating for the Portuguese rider, who has been unable to make significant strides on a bike that is not working the way he would like it to. He explains, “Small steps. Baby, baby, baby steps. Really baby steps. I would have liked something bigger.”
The 29-year-old is fully adapted to the premier riding style, but the bike’s performance has been holding him back. He adds, “The feeling I have is good, but the bike is just not working as it should. It’s quite frustrating.”
Despite the challenges, Oliveira remains determined to keep working and find a way to improve his results. He acknowledges that the pressure to perform is high, especially as one of the best-known athletes in Portugal, a country known for its love of football.
Oliveira’s home race at the Algarve International Circuit was a special one for him, as he received a warm welcome from fans. He says, “It’s quite amazing to have not just the track, but the whole country with you. I can’t describe the feeling.”
However, with this level of support also comes added pressure. Oliveira admits, “A little bit of pressure because everyone is shouting your name. But it’s good because after this, not even playing for the world championship will be more pressure than this.”
Despite the challenges, Oliveira remains grateful for the support and is determined to continue working towards better results.
Portugal’s Own MotoGP Star
Miguel Oliveira is not just a MotoGP rider, but a national hero in Portugal. He is one of the few athletes in the country to receive such widespread support, with fans cheering him on at every race.
Born in Almada, about 200km north of Portimao, Oliveira feels the pressure of racing in front of his home crowd is even higher than the stress of fighting for the championship. He says, “I only saw this level of support in the years I was in the championship with one rider, and he’s retired already. You know who it is – Valentino Rossi.”
Despite the added pressure, Oliveira remains grateful for the support and is determined to continue working towards better results. He says, “It was cool, really cool.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges Oliveira has faced so far this season, he remains optimistic and determined to improve. With the support of his home country behind him, he is ready to take on the rest of the MotoGP season and make his mark on the sport.
As the owner and author of this article, Kosport Magazine will continue to follow Oliveira’s journey and provide updates on his progress. Stay tuned for more exciting MotoGP action.
