Jack Miller argues "the pace is there" despite Jerez crash

Pramac Racing rider Jack Miller has spoken out following a crash during Friday practice at the Jerez circuit.

The Australian rider believes that the pace he showed in FP1, which ended with him finishing sixth fastest, was a promising sign for the weekend ahead. However, the crash at Turn 7 means that he will have to compete in Q1 tomorrow.

Commenting to the media following his crash, Miller explained:

“It’s a shame, but the pace is there. The feeling on the bike was good right from the morning.

"On my first lap with the new tyre, I was behind Marc but we hit a yellow flag, so we had to abort. That still ended up being my best lap.

“On the second tyre, I was following Pecco and tucked the front at Turn 1, but I managed to save it. Still, I lost some time and had to push hard through the next two corners to close the gap,” he said.

“I was feeling strong. But I came into Turn 7 a bit hot, didn’t get much stopping from the rear, forced the front a little, and the bike just gave up - down I went. 

Jack Miller, Pramac Racing

Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images

"We just need a bit more support from the engine braking, and I’m confident we’ll get that sorted for tomorrow.”

Speaking ahead of the race weekend, Miller explained that he was looking forward to "bouncing back" after his difficult weekend in Qatar.

"I'm really looking forward to racing in Jerez and bouncing back after what was a difficult weekend for us in Qatar — both in terms of my feelings with the bike and my physical condition, which was not at its best.

"Jerez is a track where I have had great success in the past. I really enjoy riding there, and I'm looking forward to doing it on the M1, because I think it's a circuit that could suit our bike well. "

Gino Borsoi, Pramac team manager, also commented on the Jerez circuit, which he feels suits the Yamaha, as well as addressing Miller's crash.

“This old-school circuit really seems to suit the Yamaha," Borsoi explained.

“We’re obviously disappointed by Jack’s crash, which cost him a Q2 spot that was well within reach.

“But his pace, both over one lap and in race trim, is very encouraging. That gives me a lot of confidence heading into the Sprint and Sunday.”

Miller has one more practice session tomorrow morning at 10:10 a.m. local time before Qualifying 1 at 10:50.