Marco Bezzecchi
Jack Miller has developed a reputation as a leading fan-favourite on the MotoGP grid during his tenure in the premier class, but Mick Doohan has asserted that his compatriot’s personality isn’t the only thing that’s “kept him around” for so long.
At just 31 years of age, Jack Miller is one of the most well-versed riders currently on the premier class grid.
The four-time Grand Prix winner made his debut as a wide-eyed 20-year-old back in 2015 for LCR, and has floated between a multitude of different brands to where he is now with Pramac.
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As well as his vast experience, Miller is also somewhat of a popular face inside the MotoGP paddock.
Paired up with MotoGP rookie Toprak Razgatlioglu this year at the Italian satellite team, Pramac’s fan base received a boost after seeing Miller’s show run with the three-time World Superbikes champion at the category’s season launch event in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year.
- READ MORE: Toprak Razgatlioglu says Jack Miller brings ‘really important’ off-track attribute to Pramac
Mick Doohan pinpoints Jack Miller’s prowess in bike development as the reason he’s still in MotoGP
During an appearance on the Pit Talk podcast, five-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing world champion Mick Doohan was asked for his thoughts on why Miller has been able to remain in the premier class for so long.
The 2026 MotoGP campaign marks Miller’s 12th consecutive season in the premier class, following his step up from the Moto3 category at the start of 2014.
In response to the query, Doohan said, “Look, I think, and this is just my opinion. One, he’s a good lad. People like him being around him, but that doesn’t turn into longevity.
“He clearly understands what goes on with developing a bike. With Ducati, unfortunately, it wasn’t him performing on it, but they certainly seem to find their way.
What do you expect from Jack Miller at Pramac in 2026?
“Yamaha now have him developing really what is a new format for them as well with the V4 engine. So, unfortunately, I believe that he’s super talented, and he certainly has the ability to run closer at the front, but it’s more difficult with the Yamaha he’s got this year.
“He shows signs of brilliance, and he’s quick on a lap. He understands what goes on with the bike. He can give good feedback, from what I understand. So that’s what’s kept him around.”
- READ MORE: ‘Old school’ Jack Miller is doing something behind the scenes that’s absolutely ‘golden’ for Yamaha
Jack Miller’s feedback is the main reason why Yamaha kept him at Pramac for 2026
Doohan’s verdict echoes one of the leading factors for why Miller retained his seat at Pramac over Miguel Oliveira last year.
After Razgatlioglu’s switch to MotoGP machinery was confirmed mid-way through the season, the question of who would partner with him in 2026 became a hot topic at every race weekend.
In the end, Miller’s experience prevailed. Yamaha desperately needed someone with technical know-how in their stable to continue their V4 project, and the Australian is arguably the best rider on the grid in that regard.
In fact, Miller is reportedly ‘guaranteed’ to keep his seat at Pramac for MotoGP’s new era of regulations next year due to it being such a crucial year in terms of development for the Japanese constructor.
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