Miguel Oliveira had his best performance in this MotoGP World Championship so far by finishing ninth, but in reality, his position could have been much better if it weren’t for a push from Marco Bezzecchi that forced the Portuguese rider to make a mistake costing him three positions. Additionally, he assures that his Aprilia RS-GP is not performing as it should.
Commenting on his race this Sunday in Portimão, the Trackhouse Racing rider began by explaining what happened that resulted in the loss of three positions: ‘It was an okay result. It could have been a sixth place but I got too close to [Marco] Bezzecchi in the first corner, when he leaned on me and pushed me to the left side of the track, I braked on the curb and went straight, losing three positions. Until then, I could at least fight, make a good start and also a good opening lap, where I overtook the two Yamahas [of Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins]. It wasn’t too bad’.
Regarding how he feels he is progressing, the Portuguese was clear in his response: ‘Yes, I am taking small steps forward, baby steps’ [laughs], baby steps indeed. I would like something better. The sensations I have are good and I am totally adapted to Aprilia’s riding style and everything else but the bike is not working as it should and that is quite frustrating, but it is what we have and we have to keep working.’
#88 is currently ranked 14th in the championship with 8 points accumulated so far.
