Jack Miller faces crucial MotoGP season with Yamaha

Jack Miller’s future in MotoGP hinges on his performance with Pramac Yamaha in 2025.

Jack Miller of Australia from Prima Pramac Yamaha rides during the practice session of the MotoGP 2025 PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 28, 2025. Photo by Kaikungwon Duanjumroon/Nur

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Every MotoGP season, some riders find themselves fighting to keep their place on the grid, knowing it could be their last chance to prove themselves. In 2025, Jack Miller is among those under intense scrutiny, with his future in the sport hinging on his performance with Pramac Yamaha.

Miller, a veteran of the paddock, has been a fan favorite since his days in Moto3. But after a turbulent 2024 season, he faces a defining year where every result could determine his future.

“He has never changed from the day I met him when he was a Moto3 rider,” TNT Sports’ Neil Hodgson said. “It’s his 11th year, and he’s an incredible character. This is his last real go at it in MotoGP.

“Pramac is a team he worked with before when they were with Ducati. He looked happy and relaxed—but when doesn’t he? That’s his default setting.”

Miller’s unexpected return to MotoGP

Last year, Miller was dropped by KTM, a move that nearly ended his MotoGP career. With few options remaining, he admitted his future in the sport was uncertain. However, a surprising opportunity arose when Pramac switched from Ducati to Yamaha, opening the door for Miller to sign a contract for 2025.

Yamaha, struggling to compete with Ducati’s dominance, made significant moves to strengthen its team, including acquiring Pramac and bringing in experienced riders like Miller and Miguel Oliveira. Their extensive knowledge of rival manufacturers—including Honda, Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia—could be pivotal in developing the Yamaha M1 into a more competitive machine.

Miller made his debut with the team at the season-opening Thailand MotoGP, finishing 11th and delivering Yamaha’s best result of the weekend. While not a podium finish, it was a promising step for both Miller and his new team as they work to close the gap to the front-runners.

Yamaha’s strategy to rebuild competitiveness

In addition to Miller and Oliveira, Yamaha has bolstered its ranks with test rider Augusto Fernandez, who joined after losing his Tech3 KTM seat. His presence has been especially crucial during pre-season testing, as Yamaha’s regular test rider, Cal Crutchlow, remains sidelined due to injury.

Former MotoGP star Andrea Dovizioso has stepped in to fill Crutchlow’s role, adding further experience to Yamaha’s development efforts. However, Fernandez now faces an additional challenge—replacing the injured Jonathan Rea in the World Superbike Championship.

Adapting quickly to a new bike and tyre setup is critical for Fernandez as he transitions between MotoGP and WorldSBK machinery. Some riders have successfully managed such a switch, but it remains a demanding task.

“We have seen riders do it,” Michael Laverty observed. “Michele Pirro springs to mind—he can jump on a Ducati with Pirelli rubber in Superbikes, then jump on a Desmosedici with Michelin rubber and immediately fly.

“The problem with Fernandez? He doesn’t have experience with Pirelli tyres.”

Yamaha’s development challenges

Yamaha continues to face hurdles in its bid to reclaim competitiveness, particularly in terms of horsepower. Ducati and BMW remain the benchmark in straight-line speed, leaving Yamaha with ground to make up.

“It’s a shame Crutchlow is still on the sidelines,” Laverty added. “Dovi is filling the void.

“It’s important to be on track and taking every bit of information they can glean from their test riders.

“Currently, the Yamaha lacks horsepower to fight the Ducatis and BMWs. The riding style between the M1 and R1 are similar—but the electronics do change.”

As the 2025 season unfolds, Miller’s performances will be closely scrutinized. With Yamaha in a rebuilding phase and competition fiercer than ever, his future in MotoGP depends on proving he can still deliver at the highest level.