Miguel Oliveira takes podium at rain-affected Motegi

Fog and rain delayed the Moto3 Japanese Grand Prix by more than an hour, but when it finally got underway Miguel Oliveira earned a creditworthy second place on a wet track and in very adverse conditions.

The Red Bull KTM Ajo rider, third in the overall standings, took his third consecutive podium and reduced the gap to the top two in the World Championship.

Due to the delay caused by the weather conditions, the race was reduced to just 13 laps. Oliveira, who started from the second row after yesterday being penalised three grid positions, made an excellent start, and was in second place after the first few corners.

Despite dropping a position on the third lap, the Portuguese quickly regained the spot and defended it until the chequered flag.

With 3 races to go, Miguel Oliveira is in third position in the overall standings with 179 points -reducing the gap to second place to 9 points.

44 MIGUEL OLIVEIRA
“The race went pretty well. From the morning in the warm up, in which we rode for 10 minutes, I had a good feeling with the bike in the wet. It was very stable and I liked how I was riding; I felt very comfortable and that I had the chance to do well in the race. Starting from fifth, I knew that we could be up at the front and I tried to ride a smart race, without mistakes. Finishing a second behind Antonelli was the best we could do. It’s a third consecutive podium and I further points, so I must follow this up in Australia. Thanks to the team.”

Source: Ajo