Marco Bezzecchi
Jack Miller is one of the most experienced riders on the MotoGP grid. It’s natural, therefore, that he’d take on a spokesman role for his fellow competitors.
Miller will make his 180th premier-class start at this weekend’s Grand Prix of the Americas. Only two other riders on the grid – Marc Marquez (191) and Maverick Vinales (182) have reached that mark.
The Australian made his MotoGP debut at the start of the 2015 season and has only failed to start seven races since. He jumped straight from Moto3, having finished runner-up to Alex Marquez.
Miller will hope to be on the grid come 2027 when the sport launches its next raft of regulation changes. In the interests of safety and the spectacle, the size of the engine will be reduced, and the bikes will be aerodynamically simplified.
Jack Miller and Marc Marquez calling for higher salaries in MotoGP
Speaking on the Gypsy Tales podcast, Miller argued that many MotoGP riders aren’t adequately paid. He says he’d do the job ‘for free’, but wants every competitor to receive a contract that reflects their sacrifices.
Miller has represented two factory teams in the series, racing for Ducati in 2021 and 2022 before his recent stint a KTM. He’s now riding for Yamaha satellite team Pramac.
Not every rider’s salary is publicly known. Miller is on a one-year deal this season but even if it isn’t renewed, he’s earned enough to live comfortably.
Six-time world champion and new Ducati signing Marquez is the most marketable athlete in MotoGP. But even with a series of lucrative deals in his pocket, he’s joined Miller in advocating for changes to the salary rules.
“There needs to be at least a minimum sign-on,” the 30-year-old said. “Some of these guys are signing for next to nothing.
“It’s not only a full-time job, it’s a life. I believe if you’re risking your longevity – your body’s never going to be the same… don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic job and I would do it for free.
“You’re putting on a show for everybody and you’re doing these great things. You should be paid accordingly.
“Marc’s happy to say his point on it, and I know that guy’s been paid very accordingly. But he’s one of the ones that says it as well.
“I think it’s something that our sport does need to work on. And it is something we’ve spoken to the organisation about.
“Whether or not that falls on deaf ears is another thing. But it needs to be better for the riders.”
Where Jack Miller stands on Aprilia’s campaign for Jorge Martin rule change
Rider welfare has also been a topic of discussion in recent times. Aprilia want Jorge Martin to test a MotoGP bike before he makes his return from injury.
Under concessions rules, they can’t use full-time riders in private sessions. But they either want the regulations changed or Martin to receive an exemption.
While Massimo Rivola will paint it as a move that would benefit every team, Miller says Aprilia must accept the cards they’ve been dealt. Ducati are against their proposal, pointing out that no such provision was made for Enea Bastianini in 2023.
MotoGP paddock figures expect Martin to be denied the test, though there could be a review of the regulations at the end of the season.
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