Interview: Oriol Oliver – “A small detail can make a big difference in MXGP”

Spain’s Oriol Oliver has made a promising start to his rookie season in the MXGP class, demonstrating competitive pace and resilience despite some setbacks. Five rounds into the championship, Oliver has consistently shown top ten speed on the demanding 450cc machinery, though minor crashes and technical issues have prevented him from converting this potential into stronger results. His confidence is growing alongside his performance, with the rider emphasising the importance of steady progress and a supportive team environment during this challenging transition. Adapting to the power and intensity of the MXGP class has been a learning curve for Oliver, who acknowledges the physical and technical demands of riding the more powerful 450cc bike. He has been particularly struck by how small details can have a significant impact on performance at this level, highlighting the need to be comfortable and precise with the bike’s setup. Despite his relatively small stature, Oliver has been pleased with his starts and is gradually mastering the endurance and control required to maintain pace over rough tracks. Oliver’s winter was marked by personal tragedy with the loss of his partner’s brother, Enzo, which has added emotional motivation to his racing campaign. The rider has channelled this difficult experience into determination to honour Enzo’s memory through his performances on the track. Encouraging pre-season results in Sardinia and ongoing improvements in testing have helped maintain his focus and drive as he looks ahead to the remainder of the season. With a break in the MXGP calendar, Oliver is using the opportunity to enhance his physical conditioning and refine his bike setup, including work with WP suspension. He is also competing in the British Championship’s MX1 class, which offers valuable race experience and a chance to build momentum between Grand Prix events. Oliver views the British series as a positive challenge that benefits both his development and his team’s sponsors, providing a useful platform to sharpen his skills before the next MXGP round in France.