A MotoGP rider's future is up for grabs, and it's a tale of contracts, choices, and the potential for controversy. Aprilia, a MotoGP team, has its eye on Miguel Oliveira as a test rider, but there's a catch: they need the green light from BMW, Oliveira's new employer.
Oliveira, a former MotoGP rider, recently signed with BMW to race in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) alongside Danilo Petrucci. But Aprilia wants him back, and they're willing to offer him a test role to develop their RS-GP bike.
"The desire to compete" led Oliveira to choose WSBK, but Aprilia isn't giving up. They're interested in his services for 2026 and are hoping BMW will allow a dual role.
Aprilia has faced a shortage of test riders this season, with key riders like Jorge Martin and Lorenzo Savadori sidelined due to injuries. Ai Ogura has also been absent, leaving Aprilia in need of additional testing support.
Massimo Rivola, Aprilia's CEO, acknowledged the need for more riders, stating, "If these are the statistics, maybe we need some more."
When asked about Oliveira, Rivola said, "If there's a chance, we'll take it." But he emphasized the need for BMW's approval, adding, "Since he signed with BMW, we need to ask them first."
This potential dual role has sparked curiosity and raised questions. Could Oliveira represent two rival brands? Rivola acknowledged the potential issue, saying, "From our side, we'd be happy, but we'll see."
Oliveira, for his part, is open to the idea. He has prior experience with Aprilia and is willing to discuss the opportunity if all parties can agree.
"For me, it's an option," he said. "The priority would be racing, but we need to find a calendar that works for everyone."
This story takes an intriguing turn when we look back at Oliveira's past. In 2023, when Marc Marquez left Honda, Oliveira was one of the first riders approached to fill the vacancy. However, with a contract already in place with Trackhouse and Honda only offering a one-year deal, Oliveira chose to stay put.
Luca Marini, then riding for VR46, eventually took the Honda offer, and Oliveira has no regrets. "I needed at least a two-year contract," he explained. "Breaking a deal wasn't an option for me."
So, will Oliveira's future involve a dual role with Aprilia and BMW? The decision rests with BMW, and the potential for a unique arrangement in MotoGP is certainly intriguing.
What do you think? Should Oliveira take on this dual role? Could it be a successful strategy, or is it a recipe for conflict? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
