Miguel Oliveira’s long-awaited return to MotoGP has been delayed once again, as the Prima Pramac Yamaha rider has not yet recovered sufficiently from injuries sustained during the Sprint Race incident at Termas de Rio Hondo.
After undergoing continuous rehabilitation for shoulder injuries, Oliveira was hopeful of making his comeback at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix at Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto. However, despite encouraging progress, medical evaluations have confirmed that the Portuguese rider is not yet fit to race, forcing him to extend his time on the sidelines.
In Oliveira’s absence, Augusto Fernandez has been confirmed as the replacement rider and will line up for his third race of the 2025 MotoGP season. The Spaniard previously filled in for Oliveira at the Grand Prix of the Americas (COTA) and Lusail, earning three points in the USA but suffering a DNF in Qatar.
Now, Fernandez heads to familiar ground — his home circuit — where he has shown flashes of brilliance in recent years. He finished seventh in the Sprint Race at Jerez last season and was a points finisher in the main race two years ago, underlining his potential to deliver a strong performance in front of the Spanish fans.
The Prima Pramac Yamaha team expressed full support for Oliveira’s recovery:
“Miguel has shown tremendous determination in his rehabilitation, but our priority is his full recovery. We will miss his presence at Jerez, but we’re confident in Augusto’s ability to step in and deliver a competitive ride on home turf.”
No official date has been given for Oliveira’s return, but the team remains hopeful he could be fit for the French Grand Prix at Le Mans in the coming weeks, depending on medical clearance.
With Augusto Fernandez now confirmed, the Spanish Grand Prix will feature a homegrown talent looking to capitalize on local support and prove his worth once more in MotoGP’s premier class. All eyes will be on his performance as he takes on the world’s best in front of a passionate Jerez crowd.
Credit Photo : MotoGP
