MotoGP | GP Portimao Day 1, Oliveira: “It was a strange day”

GP Portimao MotoGP 2023 Honda HRC – Mixed feelings for Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez at the end of the first day of free practice valid for the Portuguese Grand Prix, the inaugural event of the 2023 MotoGP world championship. Due to a less than ideal feeling with the bike - combined with less than ideal weather conditions - the RNF riders were unable to extract the maximum from the RS-GP, an aspect that will have to push the technicians to work ahead of the sessions of tomorrow and the day after.

Statements Miguel Oliveira Day 1 GP Portimao MotoGP 2023

“Today was a strange day. In the morning we had some light rain which didn't allow us to complete more than two runs. All this didn't allow me to create a good feeling with the bike from the first laps on the track. The afternoon free practice, however, started well and I felt quite good on the bike. Unfortunately, when I switched to second gear, a problem arose with the steering damper which slowed us down. In the end there was a delay which did not allow us to complete the day in a brilliant way. I also had a crash during my first attempt with new tyres, probably caused by the low temperature of the rear compound. At first I thought that Pol's bike had hit me, but then I understood perfectly well that I had fallen on my own and that I overturned at the entrance to turn 11. Luckily I only had a bruise on my foot and left leg. However I tried to do my best. We hope to improve tomorrow."

Statements Raul Fernandez Day 1 GP Portimao MotoGP 2023

“The first session and this morning's runs were far from ideal. I didn't feel good on the bike, in fact... the feeling wasn't ok. However, the team did an excellent job and by changing some things we managed to find a good set-up. Unfortunately, during the time attack, I had a fall and the settings of the second bike did not allow me to complete the work program. It wasn't ideal, but I'm sure we'll try again tomorrow. Let's hope the weather is better."