Jack Miller has admitted that Marc Marquez might take over for him at KTM in 2025. Beyond whether he remains or exits Honda next season, Marquez will become a much-wanted free agent the year after, which is why his future has captivated MotoGP this month. KTM has openly discussed their desire to hire Marquez as part of a strategic growth initiative. As for next year, the manufacturer will need to find Pedro Acosta a seat in the top class. Many people see Acosta as a potential future superstar because of what he might do as a rider in the major leagues. All of this has led to a rapid decline in Jack Miller's performance on the squad. After the season-opening high of a podium finish, Jack Miller has been playing catch-up with fellow KTM racer Brad Binder and has yet to look particularly at ease on the bike.
MotoGP: Jack Miller and KTM
Miller signed with KTM this year and is under contract until 2024, but with so much competition for spots, the stability of his position has been called into question. Last week at Misano, he acknowledged having confidence issues. Miller, Binder, Espargaro, and Fernandez are all under contract for next year with KTM, and the Austrian team would also want to add Acosta.
Also Read: MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says, 'I Know Where I Will be Racing in 2024' Amid Honda Switch
KTM has ruled out adding a fifth bike to the lineup, so it is unclear how they intend to address this issue. In 2025, KTM plans to increase the number of motorcycles they field by purchasing an existing satellite team, as stated by KTM motorsports director Pit Beirer. It's possible that this is how Marquez will be brought in, and rumour has it he'll be riding an MV Agusta. Seeing Marquez leave Honda would come as a surprise.
MotoGP: Marc Marquez and Honda’s Misano Test
Marquez may not want to endure another year of Honda's weak performance, high accident rates, and potential for injury after the initial 2024 RC213V prototype underwhelmed all its riders during the Misano test. Even though Marquez has hinted on social media that he would leave Honda, the company is sure that he will remain until the conclusion of his contract in 2024.
Also Read: MotoGP: Marc Marquez to Decide His Future with Honda Around India and Japan GP
After getting his hands on a 2024 Honda RC213V for the first time, Marques said, "The riding style is quite different but, in the end, the problems are the same, so we need to keep working. Of course, you always expect more. If this is the base, if this is the bike, then we are far. We need to work and change many things. It’s true that there are new engineers. They’ve started with this new bike then they will start working. They’ve not been working on this new project for a long time. Let’s see if they can make a step."
"An engineer has come, I believe he's from aerodynamics, who used to work more in Formula 1, and we have also tested new aerodynamics. When I stop in the pit, I talk to a different face. They haven't introduced me to him yet, but I think he's the new Project Leader. Although they haven't made it clear to me," added Marquez.
Honda introduced their first 2024 prototype during the Misano test, principally incorporating a new chassis design for their Factory and satellite team riders. To a large extent, the engine was the same as the one he's been using throughout 2023. Marquez's comments did not auger well for his future with Honda to say the least.
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