Miguel Oliveira Trains at Misano After French MotoGP: Will the Yamaha YZF-R1 Be the New Launchpad?

After a long-awaited return to racing at the 2025 French MotoGP Grand Prix, Miguel Oliveira is already showing signs of his dedication and drive to recover peak performance. This Tuesday, the Portuguese rider was spotted training at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, where he took part in a private session aboard a production-derived Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR.

Despite recent challenges, including a prolonged injury layoff, the Prima Pramac Yamaha rider is making every effort to regain his rhythm both mentally and physically. With limited race mileage in MotoGP 2025 due to missing half of the season’s six rounds, Oliveira faces a steep climb—but he appears more determined than ever.

Training on the YZF-R1 GYTR with GRT Yamaha

The test session at Misano wasn’t just a solo ride. Miguel Oliveira joined forces with the GRT Yamaha team, training alongside World Superbike riders and team members in what was described as a positive and collaborative atmosphere. A group photo posted on social media confirmed the presence of Oliveira among the team, signaling Yamaha’s full support in helping him regain full race readiness.

The bike used during the test, the Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR, is known for being a top-tier track-focused machine based on Yamaha’s production superbike platform. While it’s not a MotoGP prototype, the R1 GYTR still offers competitive dynamics and rider feedback—ideal for a racer trying to regain track sharpness and rebuild confidence without the added pressure of a race weekend.

This marks an important milestone in Oliveira’s rehabilitation, as he adapts to the demands of MotoGP machinery again. The Portuguese star is using these private sessions to rediscover his flow, work on his fitness, and re-familiarize himself with high-speed cornering, braking zones, and throttle control after nearly two months away from race competition.

Oliveira’s French GP: A Mix of Promise and Pain

Just a few days prior to this test, Oliveira competed in the main race at Le Mans, delivering an impressive performance under difficult conditions. At one point, the #88 was inside the podium positions, catching the eye of commentators and fans alike. His lap times were competitive, and his aggression and race craft looked sharper than expected after his injury break.

However, the final laps of the French GP brought heartbreak. A crash late in the race ended what could have been a fairytale return with at least a top-ten result, if not better. Thankfully, Oliveira walked away without any new injuries, and the incident didn’t appear to aggravate his existing condition.

Despite the crash, many observers agreed that Oliveira had shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating that he still has the speed and race IQ to fight among the best in the field.

Road to Recovery: More Than Just Physical

While regaining physical strength is a major priority, Oliveira’s comeback is equally about rediscovering his race rhythm, building endurance, and most importantly, regaining trust in the bike. MotoGP requires incredible mental precision, and riders returning from injury often face hesitation under braking or in overtaking situations—both of which can make the difference between a top-five finish and a midfield struggle.

Training sessions like the one in Misano allow Oliveira to rebuild that confidence in a lower-stakes environment while still pushing himself. The YZF-R1 GYTR is agile and responsive, making it a perfect tool for helping riders test their limits and gradually return to competitive intensity.

With limited MotoGP seat time this season, every minute on the bike counts. Oliveira knows that if he wants to make an impact during the remaining rounds, he’ll need to be sharp—physically and tactically—by the time the grid assembles at circuits like Mugello, Assen, and Sachsenring.

Yamaha’s Commitment to Oliveira’s Comeback

Yamaha’s support for Miguel Oliveira’s recovery journey has been clear. Allowing him access to GRT Yamaha and high-performance machinery outside of race weekends shows that the manufacturer still sees long-term potential in the Portuguese rider. This could prove crucial as the 2025 season unfolds, especially with rider market movements looming.

As of now, Oliveira’s future beyond 2025 remains uncertain, and his performances in the latter part of the season may determine whether he remains part of the Yamaha family—or finds himself looking elsewhere for a seat.

There have also been whispers in the paddock about Prima Pramac Yamaha’s potential lineup shakeups for next season. If Oliveira can deliver consistent top-ten finishes—or even a podium or two—it could cement his role within the team or even open doors elsewhere within the Yamaha structure.

A Rider with Unfinished Business

At 30, Miguel Oliveira is entering the most critical phase of his career. Already a five-time MotoGP race winner, the Portuguese rider has shown time and again that he possesses elite-level talent. But injuries, machinery inconsistency, and team transitions have repeatedly slowed his momentum.

His presence in Misano is a declaration: he is not ready to fade away quietly. Every test lap, every corner taken in training, and every race restart is a step toward reclaiming his place among the MotoGP elite.

What’s Next for Miguel Oliveira?

With momentum slowly building, the next few rounds will be key. Mugello could mark his true “second debut” for the season if he enters the race weekend with more physical preparation and sharper riding instincts. It’s a track where Yamaha bikes have historically performed well, and Oliveira has enjoyed success there in lower categories.

Eyes will be watching closely—not just fans, but team managers, sponsors, and rivals. Miguel Oliveira’s comeback is still in progress, but signs suggest he’s far from done making headlines in MotoGP.