Jack Miller’s contract extension means Pramac Yamaha team-mate Miguel Oliveira will depart on the finish of this season, and appears nearly sure to be with no place on the 2026 MotoGP grid.
Though Oliveira was initially introduced on a two-year deal, in comparison with a single season for Miller, that settlement has been annulled.
With WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu lengthy signed for one of many Pramac machines, and Oliveira the lowest-ranked of Yamaha’s present MotoGP riders, the factory lastly picked Miller for the second seat.
Oliveira, a five-time MotoGP winner with KTM, now faces an unsure future.
He has downplayed rumours of a return to Aprilia in a take a look at and wild-card position, whereas persevering with his full-time racing profession would possible require a swap to WorldSBK.
On paper, Yamaha’s determination was clear: Oliveira has scored simply ten factors this season, in comparison with 52 for Miller.
Nevertheless, each Yamaha and Pramac administration acknowledged that Oliveira’s season was closely compromised by shoulder accidents in Argentina, when he was taken out by rookie Fermin Aldeguer and compelled to overlook three rounds.
“This announcement comes with combined feelings, because it additionally marks the upcoming departure of Miguel,” mentioned Yamaha Racing managing director Paolo Pavesio, upon saying Miller’s deal.
“Sadly, his season was impacted by the damage he sustained in Argentina, however his dedication to returning to the bike, his dedication to the undertaking, and his professionalism have been exemplary.
“We sit up for the remaining races collectively and stay absolutely dedicated to supporting him all through the remainder of the MotoGP season.”
“Managing a staff requires tough selections”
Pramac staff principal Paolo Campinoti mentioned: “Managing a staff typically requires tough selections, and on this regard, I wish to sincerely thank Miguel for the dedication and professionalism he has proven in these months, in addition to the benefit with which he built-in into our staff.
“It was a pleasure having him on board and discovering not solely an awesome skilled but in addition an awesome individual.”
“I‘m actually sorry that the damage he suffered at first of the championship didn‘t give him the possibility to indicate the good expertise he has,” echoed staff supervisor Gino Borsoi.
“Nevertheless, I hope that, with the event work we’re persevering with to hold out, he’ll be capable of obtain leads to the ultimate races that mirror his true worth.”
Oliveira’s greatest Yamaha race result’s a twelfth place final day out at Balaton Park
