Yamaha is entering a pivotal phase in its MotoGP history, and Jack Miller is poised to play a key role in this transition. The Australian is now fully committed to transforming the new Yamaha V4 prototype, intended to replace the inline four-cylinder M1, into a competitive weapon for the 2026 MotoGP season.
After several notable wildcard appearances this year with Augusto Fernandez – including a first impressive performance at Misano with points right from the start – the V4 has now entered a much more concrete phase of development. Miller joined the regulars fabio quartararo et alex rins during post-race testing, before embarking on two full days of private testing in Valencia.
On the circuit, Jack Miller He didn't beat around the bush. For him, Yamaha has already passed the first essential step.
« Obviously, First, it must be reliable, which they have demonstrated so far " he explained to crash.net.
The rest of the plan is clear: to fully exploit the engine's potential.
« The next step, This will be about power managementWe have found that the system is capable of using the power it currently has available; therefore, the goal is to increase this horsepower. what he can do »
With Jack Miller, the Yamaha V4 project enters its phase of truth.
According to MillerThe technical foundations are solid. The suspension system has already proven its worth, and the work will now focus on overall optimization.
« We know the suspension system has proven itself. The rest will therefore consist of develop the electronics and the chassis »
The tone is set: the experimental phase is coming to an end. Yamaha now wants to move forward as with any Grand Prix prototype.
« It's about putting everything in place. So, rather than having different components tested by teams, we're going to start doing what we normally do to achieve the performance of a racing motorcycle. »
Miller emphasizes the work already done by the engineers and test pilots.
« The testing team worked hard to develop it so they could send it to us. Now we hope to be able to fine-tune it. »
During the official test day in Valencia, Miller recorded the 20th fastest time, 1,491 seconds behind the fastest, Raul fernandezA significant difference, but one that was largely put into perspective internally, as the objective was data accumulation rather than pure performance.
The Australian then remained on site for another private test, continuing the work alongside the other drivers. Yamaha .
The version considered "definitive" of the V4 Yamaha 2026 is expected during the Sepang tests, January 29-31a session to which all the pilots Yamaha will be able to participate before the official MotoGP tests.
This is where the project will enter its moment of truth. With Jack Miller as a scout, Yamaha no longer proceeding tentatively: the V4 is no longer a technological promise, but a deliberate undertaking to become competitive again at the top of MotoGP.
