In an unexpected turn of events, Augusto Fernandez will step in for Miguel Oliveira at the upcoming GP of the Americas in Austin, Texas, after Oliveira was forced to sit out due to a serious injury sustained in a crash at the Argentina GP. The race, which marks the third round of the 2025 MotoGP World Championship, will take place at the Circuit of the Americas on March 30.
Oliveira, who was involved in a high-speed crash during the Sprint Race on March 16, suffered a significant injury to his left sternoclavicular joint. The incident, caused by contact with another rider on lap 5, led to initial assessments that ruled out fractures but confirmed a severe contusion and hematoma. Further medical tests in Portugal revealed a dislocated sternoclavicular joint with ligament damage, making it impossible for the Portuguese rider to participate in the Austin round.
While Oliveira begins his recovery, Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Rider and 2022 Moto2 World Champion, Augusto Fernandez, will take the reins aboard the YZR-M1 for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP team. The 27-year-old Spaniard from Madrid, known for his impressive Moto2 career, will make his MotoGP debut in this pivotal race.
Fernandez, who has already been involved in Yamaha’s testing program this season, brings a wealth of experience to the team. His debut at the Circuit of the Americas will be a significant milestone in his MotoGP career, and all eyes will be on the talented rider as he steps up to represent Prima Pramac Yamaha in the absence of Oliveira.
The Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP team extends their best wishes for Miguel Oliveira’s full and speedy recovery and is excited to welcome Augusto Fernandez to the team for this crucial race.
As the MotoGP world watches closely, the GP of the Americas promises to be an exciting spectacle, with Fernandez aiming to make the most of this unique opportunity to shine on the sport’s biggest stage.