Jack Miller (Yamaha) makes it clear: “Then we’ll all look like idiots!”

The reorientation of the MotoGP World Championship under Liberty Media is clearly evident. At the weekends, fans are being offered ever more entertainment alongside the action on the track. This is also intended to appeal to a wider audience – very much in line with the aim of growth.

The riders, in particular, are being used to market the Motorcycle World Championship. For the stars of the show, this adds further commitments to what are already stressful MotoGP weekends. This has recently sparked increasing debate. At the Indonesian Grand Prix, a fine of 5,000 euros was also announced for failing to attend a promotional event.

Jack Miller: “At some point, they’ll have to pay us for it”

Pramac Yamaha ace Jack Miller is known for not mincing his words. ‘Jackass’ also has a clear opinion on this matter. “If it’s expected of you, then you just have to go along with it. I don’t think you should opt out,” emphasised the Australian. “We’re all in this together – what makes someone so special that they don’t take part, whilst the rest of us do? If we all opt out, we’ll look like idiots. Nobody is above the rules.”

Ahead of the Grands Prix, the drivers often have to make fan appearances in the respective countries. On top of that, there are show events during the race weekends – such as the recent go-kart race in Japan. “I understand that it’s getting more and more, and at some point they’ll have to pay us for it – the riders, I mean,” demanded Miller. “Because if you’re doing more and more and the money coming in is getting less and less… that’s just how it goes!”

Topic of the week

Topic of the week: MotoGP’s new schedule proved highly controversial

In 2027, MotoGP will also enter the 850cc era with a new schedule. It was not so much the changes themselves as the way the decisions were reached that caused a stir. A prime example of: ‘Talking helps’.

Thomas Kuttruf

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22.10.2026 - 23:55