Miguel Oliveira, who left KTM at the end of 2022, embarked on a new journey with Aprilia in 2023. However, there’s speculation that he might be considering another team switch in 2024. Repsol Honda reportedly sees the Portuguese rider as a potential replacement for Marc Márquez, who is widely believed to be departing from the Japanese giant.
This news has been highlighted by international media, especially as rumors about Marc Márquez’s future continue to swirl. The speculation has intensified after Gigi Dall’Igna recently mentioned that Márquez has likely made up his mind to leave Honda and embrace a new venture with Ducati.
Oliveira is said to be on a shortlist of riders being considered by Honda. This list also includes Pedro Acosta, who is set to make his MotoGP debut with the GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3. Acosta is expected to replace Augusto Fernández, with recent reports suggesting that the team led by Hervé Poncharal will feature Pol Espargaró and Pedro Acosta.
According to SPEEDWEEK.com, Honda is currently “reaching out to all MotoGP riders,” even appearing somewhat “desperate.” They are particularly interested in riders associated with Aprilia, as DAZN reports that the manufacturer has also approached Maverick Viñales.
Johann Zarco has already been confirmed as a rider for LCR Honda. It seems highly unlikely that Iker Lecuona will replace Márquez, even though he has a contract with the factory Honda team. Lecuona currently races in the World Superbikes championship and has occasionally stepped in as a replacement rider in MotoGP.
It’s worth noting that Oliveira was previously rumored to join LCR Honda at the end of 2022. His ability to develop bikes is widely recognized. However, Oliveira has a direct contract with Aprilia that lasts until the end of 2024.