Miguel Oliveira has said goodbye to MotoGP after six seasons, explaining that he tried everything to stay but could not secure a seat for 2026.

The Portuguese rider made his final appearance at the Valencia Grand Prix, closing a chapter that started in 2019 when he joined Tech3 KTM. Over the years, Oliveira became known for his smart racing style and his ability to take chances when they appeared.

Though he had signed a deal with Pramac Racing that could have kept him on the grid until 2026, a performance rule in his contract allowed the team to release him early. Yamaha will support Pramac from next year, and their plans included bringing in World Superbike star Toprak Razgatlioglu. That meant Oliveira or his team-mate Jack Miller would eventually lose a place.

Oliveira’s season became more difficult after a heavy crash in Argentina left him with a shoulder injury. He said it was frustrating because learning a new bike while recovering made progress slow.

“It was a hard lesson,” he shared in an interview for motorsport.com. “You think everything is set for the future, and then an injury changes everything. I worked as much as I could, but sometimes effort is not enough in this sport.”

Even with the recent challenges, Oliveira leaves MotoGP with results many riders never achieve. He collected five wins, seven podiums and a pole position (all with KTM). Before reaching the top class, he also came close to winning championships in Moto2 and Moto3.

Reflecting on his time in the paddock, Oliveira said he feels lucky:

“I can be proud. I won races in different categories and raced for great teams. Many people helped me to grow, and I will always remember that.”

Now aged 30, Oliveira is looking ahead to a fresh start with BMW in the World Superbike Championship. Talks are also taking place about becoming a test rider for Aprilia in 2026, although that would need agreement from BMW.

Despite stepping away, he has not turned his back on MotoGP forever.

“I’m not saying goodbye forever,” he said. “Right now, the door is closed, but it can open again. I will focus on what I can achieve next season and keep looking forward.”

As Oliveira moves to new challenges, fans will remember his brave rides, his calm personality and the passion he always brought to the track.