Jack Miller is set to compete at the Japanese MotoGP at Motegi this weekend, marking his first race at this circuit with Yamaha, his confirmed team for the 2026 season. This event holds special significance for Miller, who last won a MotoGP race three years ago at Motegi, and he is eager to race at a track that highlights his capabilities.
Miller has previously raced in Japan for Yamaha, having recently finished second at the Suzuka 8 Hours in early August. His anticipation for Motegi is fueled by his positive experiences with the Japanese fans and his strong connection to the circuit.
Jack Miller Reflects on Returning to Motegi with Yamaha
Expressing his excitement, Miller emphasized the importance of the Japanese Grand Prix for both himself and Yamaha.
I‘m thrilled to be back at Motegi. It‘s obviously a very important race for Yamaha, but it‘s also extremely special for me since this is where I took my last victory,
Jack Miller said.
He also praised the passionate support from the local fans, recalling his recent time at Suzuka and during visits to Yamaha facilities in Iwata and Tokyo.
I love everything about the Japanese GP, and the fans here are simply incredible. I was reminded of that at the Suzuka 8 Hours, where I stood on the podium, and again today during our visit to YMC [Yamaha Motor Company] headquarters in Iwata and then in Tokyo where we were welcomed by many excited fans.
Jack Miller said.
Looking ahead to the race, Miller is eager to perform well on a circuit he feels suits his racing style.
I can‘t wait to start riding on a track I absolutely love, one that really brings out my strengths.
Jack Miller said.
Miguel Oliveira’s Anticipation for His Upcoming Japanese Grand Prix
Miguel Oliveira is also preparing for Motegi, where he is expected to race in Japan for the last time as a Yamaha rider. The Portuguese competitor will not continue with Yamaha in 2026 and is believed to be moving to World Superbike with BMW. Despite this, Oliveira remains enthusiastic about the event.
This is a special race for me, not only because it‘s Yamaha‘s home GP with Prima Pramac Yamaha, but also because I‘m fascinated by this country and always happy to return,
Oliveira explained.
He described the warm welcome from Yamaha employees during a recent visit at Yamaha Motor Racing in Iwata.
Doing so as a rider for a Japanese manufacturer makes it even more special. I felt the big enthusiasm of the Yamaha employees during today’s visit at YMR [Yamaha Motor Racing] in Iwata and I hope we can keep building on our recent progress.
Miguel Oliveira said.
We‘re improving every weekend and showing growing competitiveness, which is a huge motivation.
Oliveira added.
Pramac Yamaha’s Debut at the Japanese Grand Prix as Yamaha’s Satellite Team
This year marks the first time the Italian Pramac Yamaha team will compete at Motegi as Yamaha’s official satellite team. They have transitioned from Ducati after the 2024 season. Team Director Gino Borsoi shared insights on how the Motegi track suits the Yamaha YZR-M1 bike.
We arrive from a race where we brought home a decent result, and we‘re ready to try again here in Motegi, an especially important round as it‘s Yamaha‘s home Grand Prix,
Borsoi said.
He highlighted the track’s requirements, noting that hard braking plays to the YZR-M1’s strengths, though acceleration out of corners could be more challenging.
At Motegi, hard braking is essential, which plays perfectly into one of the YZR-M1‘s main strengths. The restarts [accelerations], however, will be where we struggle more.
Borsoi stated.
The team remains optimistic about building on recent improvements to deliver strong results for Yamaha’s passionate fanbase.
Hopefully the progress we‘ve made in recent races will continue here, so we can deliver a strong result for the many Yamaha fans who will be cheering for us.
Gino Borsoi said.
Motegi Becomes a Pivotal Setting for Yamaha and Its Riders
The Japanese MotoGP event at Motegi carries unique significance as Yamaha’s home Grand Prix. For Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, it represents a chance to showcase progress and commitment under the Yamaha banner. The passionate support from fans and Yamaha personnel alike adds an extra layer of motivation behind the team’s efforts this weekend. With the Pramac Yamaha team officially joining as Yamaha’s satellite squad, the race will also mark an important stage in their transition from Ducati. The event’s outcomes could influence momentum heading into the 2026 season and beyond.
