Miguel Oliveira Sidelined, Augusto Fernández Steps in at Americas GP

Augusto Fernandez to debut with Prima Pramac Yamaha at the upcoming Grand Prix of the Americas, stepping in for the injured Miguel Oliveira.

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Miguel Oliveira will miss the upcoming Grand Prix of the Americas at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin after sustaining an injury during the Argentina GP Sprint Race. Stepping in for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP squad will be Yamaha Factory Racing Test Rider and former Moto2 World Champion, Augusto Fernández. 

Oliveira’s injury occurred in a crash on lap five of the Sprint Race at Termas de Rio Hondo, where he suffered a sternoclavicular joint dislocation with ligament damage. Initial examinations at the circuit’s medical center ruled out fractures but confirmed a significant contusion and hematoma. After returning to Portugal for further assessments, the extent of the injury was confirmed, leading to his withdrawal from the third round of the 2024 MotoGP season.

The Portuguese rider expressed his disappointment but emphasized the focus on his recovery: “After returning home, an MRI confirmed a dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint with ligament rupture. We have decided to keep the arm immobilized for some time, and my return will depend on my body’s recovery. We are evaluating the situation weekly to ensure I can come back at full fitness as soon as possible.”

Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP Team Director Gino Borsoi acknowledged Oliveira’s misfortune but remained optimistic about his return: “I’m really sorry for Miguel’s injury, especially as he was gaining confidence with the YZR-M1. Unfortunately, luck hasn’t been on his side, but I know he will come back strong. Right now, the priority is his recovery. Meanwhile, we welcome Augusto to the team, and despite the short notice, I am confident we can do a great job together.”

Fernández, who will make his return to MotoGP competition aboard the Yamaha YZR-M1, expressed excitement about the opportunity: “First of all, I wish Miguel a speedy recovery. I also want to thank Yamaha and Pramac for this opportunity. Austin is an amazing track, and I can’t wait to be back racing on the M1.”

With the GP of the Americas scheduled for March 30, the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP team will be looking to make the most of Fernández’s experience as they await Oliveira’s return.