During last Sunday’s intense Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika, Pramac Yamaha rider Jack Miller acknowledged an error that led to his crash in the closing stages of the race, which affected his challenge for a podium finish. Miller, competing among the leading group fighting for the final two podium spots, said he was executing what he called a “semi-smart” race before the incident occurred.
Details of Miller’s Crash and Race Performance
The Australian, the only Yamaha rider to use a medium rear tyre, was positioned inside the top ten on lap 23 when VR46 Ducati’s Franco Morbidelli forced him wide. This move pushed Miller off the ideal racing line, causing dirt to gather on his tyres and ultimately contributing to his crash at the last corner of the 27-lap event. Despite the crash, Miller managed to remount his bike and secured a point by finishing 14th.
Reflecting on his race, Miller explained his cautious approach as he conserved his tyres while remaining in contention.
“I felt good there, hanging off the back of the group,”
he said.
“I had to sit two tenths, three tenths [back] because every time I got on them, four bikes in a row, it was just turning my front tyre to chewing gum.”
As the race neared its conclusion, Miller encountered further challenges from rivals.
“Three laps to the end, Frankie came past me at [Turns] 11 and 12,”
he recalled. Noting how close he was to avoiding contact, Miller added,
“The only reason we didn’t make contact is I heard a bike when I shut my gas, I heard a bike coming coming to me.”
He continued,
“I got pushed to the end of the track, [Fabio] Di Giannantonio came by as well. The next time I put the bike down on the left-hand side, I crashed. The tyres were a little bit dirty going off-line and next time I was just trying to stay with the group and the next time I go on the left-hand side, I’m on my head.”
Miller Expresses Disappointment but Highlights Potential
Miller openly admitted his mistake with clear frustration but maintained a positive outlook on the race’s overall performance.
“Just fucked it up at the end. Disappointed about that. Sorry for the team, but it was nice to be back regardless,”
he said.
He emphasized the competitiveness his group showed throughout the race and how he managed his tyres effectively before the crash.
“We showed good potential. Fighting for the podium, in the group. So, it was nice to be there with these guys in the group and manage the tyre and ride what I felt was a semi-smart race.”
Implications of the Indonesian Crash for Miller and Yamaha
This crash highlights the fine margins involved in MotoGP racing, where tyre management and positioning during critical race moments play a decisive role. For Miller and the Pramac Yamaha team, the incident serves as a learning point, especially as they continue to develop their strategy and performance in upcoming races. Miller’s candid acknowledgment of his error underlines the pressures riders face while competing at the highest level amidst fierce competition.
Looking ahead, maintaining tyre condition while battling in close groups will be key for Miller’s success, particularly on circuits like Mandalika that can be demanding on tyre grip. Despite the setback, his ability to secure points after the crash shows resilience that may benefit both rider and team as the season progresses.
