Friday was a magnificent first day at the Circuit of The Americas for Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 Portuguese rider Miguel Oliveira. The 23 year old rider was the man to beat, taking the top spot in both FP1 and FP2.
Dust on some parts of the track did not prove to be a problem for Miguel Oliveira, who dominated FP1 from start to finish. He led the way in the opening minutes, improving his own times until just before the chequered flag fell and clocking a top lap of 2:12.104.
In FP2, the Red Bull KTM Ajo Portuguese rider encountered a cleaner track, which allowed him to ride in the 2:11s from the start. The script remained unchanged for Miguel Oliveira, however, who immediately resumed his position at the top of the timesheets. His 2:11.104 time made him the best rider in the afternoon session.
#44 Miguel Oliveira
“I felt good on this opening day of the Red Bull GP of The Americas. Besides topping the timesheets, I also think that we did a good job with the race in mind. Unlike last year, the track isn't in the best condition, so you can't lose focus at any time. We will see what happens tomorrow because the forecast is for rain, so we hope to find the best setup for a good spot on the grid. We're satisfied with the work we did today, and tomorrow we will continue in the same way, whatever the conditions might be”.
Tomorrow, Miguel Oliveira will look for a position on the starting grid that avoids the need for a raceday fightback. Qualifying takes place at 9:05pm Portuguese local time, and is expected to be contested in wet conditions.
Results (Combined practice times FP1-FP2)
1. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 2:11.104
2. Sam Lowes (KTM) 2:11.125 +0.021
3. Alex Marquez (Kalex) 2:11.173 +0.069
4. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 2:11.339 +0.235
5. Joan Mir (Kalex) 2:11.450 +0.346
