Jack Miller Fears as Yamaha Delays 2026 Contract Call

Jack Miller of the Pramac Yamaha team says he’s “trying to be as patient as possible” awaiting Yamaha’s decision on his 2026 MotoGP contract. With time running out and other opportunities fading, Miller remains hopeful yet anxious about his future. In-depth analysis of his statements in Austria reveals the tension behind the wait. Will Miller secure his Yamaha seat?

Miller joined Pramac Yamaha for the 2025 season on a one-year deal after leaving KTM, as the Italian team became Yamaha’s official satellite squad. The signing of Toprak Razgatlioglu for 2026 puts either Miller, Miguel Oliveira, or possibly Alex Rins at risk of losing their seat. Yamaha has yet to finalize its line-up.

Yamaha Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio earlier stated the 2026 line-up would be decided during the summer break. However, at the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix, Miller revealed no progress. “Still nothing on the table,” he said, as reported by The Race. “I’m just waiting, playing the waiting game. I want to be here, with Yamaha.”

Yamaha’s delays are causing Miller concern as alternative opportunities dwindle. “First it was before the summer break, then after. Why the delay? I don’t know, but I hope something comes soon. Other opportunities are starting to close up,” he said. Despite this, he remains enthusiastic about Yamaha’s project. “I’m trying to be as patient as I can because I love this project, working with Yamaha, and I enjoy the environment and my crew chief,” he added.

Miller has proactively reached out to Yamaha, asking what more he can do. “I feel I can go further, improve, and do more. I think they’re happy with me,” he said. His experience with Honda, Ducati, and KTM makes him a valuable asset for Yamaha’s bike development. Yet, the uncertainty adds pressure as he heads into critical races at the Red Bull Ring.

In FP1 at the 2025 Austrian MotoGP, Miller finished 18th (1:30.565), 1.189 seconds off Marc Marquez. This result underscores the challenge he faces to prove his competitive value in the remaining races, which could sway Yamaha’s contract decision. In-depth analysis suggests consistent performances will be crucial to securing his Yamaha seat or exploring other options.