Miguel Oliveira Is Honda’s Priority Objective To Replace Marc Márquez
The world of MotoGP is in upheaval following the recent announcement that Honda will part ways with eight-time world champion Marc Marquez at the end of the 2023 season, a year earlier than originally stipulated in Marquez’s contract.
This unexpected development has sent shockwaves through the racing community, leaving many wondering who will fill the monumental void left by the iconic Spanish rider.
As rumors swirl and speculations run rampant, one name has emerged as Honda’s top priority to replace Marquez:
Miguel Oliveira, the current rider for RNF Aprilia, has captured the attention of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) as the leading candidate to step into the illustrious seat vacated by Marquez.
This potential move is not just a rider transfer; it’s a seismic shift that could reshape the dynamics of MotoGP.
Oliveira’s journey to the forefront of Honda’s radar is a testament to his remarkable talent and impressive track record in the premier class of motorcycle racing. At 28 years old, he brings a wealth of experience and a remarkable racing pedigree, which makes him an attractive option for the factory Honda team.
What makes Miguel Oliveira a prime candidate for HRC’s consideration?
Let’s delve into the key factors that have elevated him to the top of the list:
1. A Proven Track Record:
Oliveira’s MotoGP journey began in 2017 when he joined the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. Over the years, he steadily honed his skills and demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level. His maiden win came at the 2020 Styrian Grand Prix, marking a historic moment as he secured KTM’s first-ever MotoGP victory. Oliveira’s tenacity and consistency have earned him a reputation as a formidable contender on the grid.
2. Experience on Leading European Bikes:
One of Oliveira’s standout attributes is his familiarity with two of the leading European manufacturers in MotoGP, KTM and Aprilia. He has successfully navigated the nuances of these bikes, gaining invaluable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. This experience could prove invaluable should he make the switch to Honda, as he would bring a deep understanding of different machine dynamics to the team.
3. Honda’s Commercial Interests:
From a commercial standpoint, Oliveira’s Portuguese heritage aligns well with Honda’s backing from Repsol, which has vested interests in Portugal. This alignment could translate into strong financial support for Oliveira, making him an even more attractive prospect for HRC.
However, the decision to leave Aprilia, where Oliveira currently races and is under contract for the 2024 season, is not one to be taken lightly. Oliveira is currently piloting the Aprilia RS-GP, a machine that has shown promise in the 2023 season.
His existing team has made significant strides, and Oliveira may be hesitant to leave a competitive package for an uncertain future.It’s worth noting that Oliveira’s contract with Aprilia includes an escape clause, allowing him to depart if a factory team offers him a seat.
This contractual provision already came into play in 2023 when Alex Rins opted to leave Honda for Yamaha.While the prospect of joining Honda offers financial incentives, it also comes with high expectations.
Miguel Oliveira would be stepping into the shoes of one of the greatest riders in MotoGP history, Marc Marquez.
Marquez’s tenure at Honda yielded six MotoGP world titles, 59 Grand Prix victories, and 101 podium finishes. Oliveira would face the daunting challenge of continuing the legacy left by Marquez and living up to the sky-high standards set by the Repsol Honda Team.
If the stars align and Miguel Oliveira secures the coveted Honda seat for the 2024 season, he would partner with Joan Mir at the factory Honda squad. Meanwhile, LCR Honda has already signed Takaaki Nakagami and Johann Zarco for the same season.
As the 2023 MotoGP season hurtles toward its conclusion and rider transfers dominate the headlines, the MotoGP world eagerly awaits the final verdict on Miguel Oliveira’s potential move to Honda. It’s a decision that could redefine the landscape of the sport and determine whether Oliveira can rise to the occasion as the next chosen one to lead the Repsol Honda Team into the future.
MotoGP fans will be watching with bated breath as this high-stakes chess game plays out in the coming months.
