Jack Miller is reportedly on the verge of signing a one-season contract with Pramac Yamaha, marking a major turn in his racing career.
Against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving MotoGP landscape, Jack Miller’s potential move to Pramac Yamaha has become a focal point of discussion among fans and analysts alike.
The Australian MotoGP star, known for his dynamic racing style and competitive spirit, appears to be on the brink of signing a contract that could redefine his career trajectory in the premier class of motorcycle racing.
Miller has been a prominent figure in MotoGP since his debut in 2015. Over the years, he has raced for several teams, including Honda, Ducati, and KTM, amassing four Grand Prix victories. However, his recent tenure with KTM did not yield the results he had hoped for, leading to speculation about his future in the sport.
Many believe the 29-year old might be forced to transition to World Superbikes after the 2024 season or retire from competitive racing altogether. In a recent interview, the rider expressed his frustration with the lack of offers, stating, “I have no offer on the table and no option for 2025 MotoGP. At the moment, my phone is not ringing.”
This sentiment reflected the anxiety surrounding his career, as he faced the possibility of being sidelined from MotoGP after a decade of competition.
However, recent reports indicate that Miller is close to finalizing a deal with Pramac Racing, which will become a satellite team for Yamaha for 2025 MotoGP. According to sources, the contract includes an option for renewal, suggesting that both parties are optimistic about a fruitful collaboration.
Miller’s return to Pramac Yamaha is particularly noteworthy, as he previously raced for the team from 2018 to 2020, achieving notable success during that period.
The Aussie’s extensive experience with various manufacturers, including Honda, Ducati, and KTM, would also be invaluable to Yamaha as they continue to develop their bike and refine their racing strategies. His insights and feedback could help the engineers at Yamaha address performance issues and enhance the bike’s capabilities on different circuits.
Miller’s return to Pramac would also reunite him with Yamaha’s technical director, Max Bartolini, with whom he previously collaborated at Ducati. This familiarity could facilitate a smoother transition as the rider adapts to the bike as well as the team’s dynamics.
Miller would team-up with Miguel Oliveira, another experienced rider who has shown promise in recent seasons. Together, they could form a powerful duo, combining their extensive knowledge of different bike manufacturers and racing strategies.
Such a partnership would be crucial for the manufacturer as it seeks to regain its competitive edge in the MotoGP championship. However, the move would mark a strategic shift for the team, prioritizing experience over the influx of younger talent from Moto2.
While names like Tony Arbolino and Sergio Garcia are also under consideration for the second seat at Pramac Yamaha, the team needs to carefully weigh their options ahead of 2025 MotoGP.
Sergio Garcia believes that Pramac is the only practical path to a world-class ride in 2025 given that Trackhouse is expected to sign his Moto2 teammate Ai Ogura. Meanwhile, Ducati’s slots are full while LCR Honda seat sponsor Idemitsu’s choices will determine the outcome of the empty slot.
On the other hand, it’s been suggested that Miller’s standing as the only Australian representative on the grid plays an important role in supporting series promoter Dorna’s TV-driven desire that he remains for 2025 MotoGP.
If this is the case, it would hopefully dispel the myth that MotoGP prioritizes Spanish riders over others. However, Dorna cannot compel Pramac Yamaha to sign anyone; yet, signing Miller would indicate, consciously or unconsciously, that Yamaha is even more committed to Fabio Quartararo than ever.
