Dorna CEO Defends Jack Miller’s Place in MotoGP, Debunks ‘Passport Ride’ Claims Amidst Grid Diversity Debate

Allegations regarding Jack Miller's 'passport privilege' dismissed as "baseless"

Dorna's head supports Jack Miller's participation in the 2025 lineup

Dorna's CEO asserts that Jack Miller has rightfully earned his place in MotoGP, dismissing allegations of favoritism based on nationality as "nonsense."

Miller was on the verge of departing MotoGP following the loss of his factory KTM seat to Pedro Acosta for the 2025 season, and not being considered for a position with the Tech3 team.

Pramac Yamaha stepped in to revive his aspirations.

The topic has sparked a discussion in MotoGP regarding the diversity of countries represented among the riders.

Riders from Spain and Italy excel, but there's a belief that their advancement into MotoGP is more challenging due to the organizers' preference for a diverse range of nationalities.

"It's a straightforward response," said Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta to AS.

In the Olympics, should you be an American and rank fourth nationally, your journey ends there. You will not proceed. It's final.

"It's inconceivable to me, especially as a Spaniard, that certain individuals who have had greater opportunities than their peers, due to the effective systems in place in Spain, monopolize the network."

"We must not fill the grid with Spaniards. This is a definitive ruling from the championship organizers.

"In a global competition, being from a region with ample resources means you must excel; that's simply the expectation due to the advantages you've had."

Past seasons of MotoGP were dominated by champions from the United States and Australia, however, the landscape has since

Ezpeleta cautioned riders from Spain and Italy, stating, "Going forward, their numbers will diminish. It doesn't contribute anything extra."

"Currently, there are individuals who, in my opinion, should not be part of it, though I won't specify who. This situation does not enhance the quality of the championship."

"Aiming for a world title while still incorporating Spaniards and Italians is not feasible."

"This is something that can occur to anyone. If we consider it closely, how many Spaniards are present here who, ideally, shouldn't be?"

"Our responsibility is to provide chances to those who have lacked them."

"In the instance of Miller, it's evident as he is a competitor who has achieved grand prix victories in MotoGP."

"Those who critique him have achieved less than he has. Let's avoid engaging in foolish talk."

"I prefer not to rely on Miller but instead on a philosophical approach. Moreover, it would be a bigger mistake to allocate one quota for each country."

"Our goal is to give priority to racers from every country participating. Similarly, when we were not in the lead, I would have preferred to see a diverse group of racers at the front, not just those from America."

"That's what I would have enjoyed back in the 80s."

"Currently, they are of Spanish origin, but it must be carried out in that manner."

Ezpeleta also emphasized that there will be fewer races held in Spain.

"He stated that it would not be possible to keep hosting four Grand Prix events in Spain."

"They are guaranteed to remain until 2026, at which point we'll assess the situation. It simply isn't feasible beyond that."

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