Francesco Guidotti Criticizes Jack Miller’s Exit from KTM Amid Salary Disputes and Bankruptcy Claims

In the high-octane world of MotoGP, where loyalty and performance are as critical as speed, the recent fallout between KTM team manager Francesco Guidotti and Australian rider Jack Miller has sent shockwaves through the paddock. Guidotti, known for his measured demeanor, has publicly criticized Miller’s decision to leave KTM at the end of the 2024 season, citing salary disputes and unfounded bankruptcy rumors as key factors. The KTM boss didn’t hold back, suggesting that Miller’s exit might invite “karmic consequences” for abandoning the team during a challenging period.

Jack Miller’s tenure with KTM, which began in 2023, was marked by high expectations. The Australian, a four-time MotoGP race winner, was recruited for his experience with Honda and Ducati, with KTM hoping he’d help elevate their RC16 to championship-contending status. However, the 2024 season was a disappointment. Miller struggled with technical issues, particularly vibrations caused by Michelin’s new tire construction, which hampered his performance. He finished 16th in the championship, a far cry from the podiums he achieved early in his KTM stint.

Guidotti, reflecting on Miller’s struggles, previously noted, “Jack suffers more than the others from vibrations with the new package. These problems have been present since the start of the season.” Despite these challenges, Guidotti believed Miller was motivated to prove KTM wrong for not renewing his contract, stating, “He will definitely want to prove that we made a mistake by not giving him another chance.” Yet, recent comments suggest a shift in tone, with Guidotti now pointing to off-track issues as the real catalyst for Miller’s departure.

Sources close to the team reveal that Miller’s exit was not solely performance-related. Negotiations for a contract extension reportedly stalled over salary demands, with Miller seeking a higher paycheck despite his lackluster results. Guidotti, frustrated by the impasse, hinted that Miller’s priorities were misplaced. “When a rider focuses more on money than on the project, it’s hard to align visions,” he reportedly told Motorsport-Total. “We needed commitment, not ultimatums.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Miller allegedly raised concerns about KTM’s financial stability, citing rumors of potential bankruptcy. These claims, which surfaced amid KTM’s winless 2024 season and the team’s restructuring, were swiftly debunked by KTM’s management. Guidotti called the rumors “baseless and disrespectful,” emphasizing that KTM’s investment in MotoGP remains robust. “To suggest we’re on the brink of collapse is an insult to our engineers, sponsors, and fans,” he said. “Jack’s comments were a low blow.”

Guidotti’s most striking remark came when he suggested that Miller’s actions might invite “karmic retribution.” While not elaborating on what form this might take, the comment reflects the deep sense of betrayal felt within KTM. Miller, once praised for his work ethic and team spirit, now faces scrutiny for what Guidotti perceives as disloyalty. “You don’t walk away from a team that gave you a factory seat and spread doubts about their future,” Guidotti said. “That’s not how you build respect in this sport.”

Miller, who has secured a return to Pramac Racing for 2025, has remained tight-lipped about the criticism. However, his history suggests resilience in the face of adversity. Known for his gritty racing style and fan-favorite nickname “JackAss,” Miller has weathered controversies before. Whether he can silence his critics with strong performances on Yamaha’s YZR-M1 remains to be seen.

As KTM prepares for 2025, Guidotti’s departure from the team manager role adds another layer of complexity. Aki Ajo, a proven talent developer, will take over, leading a revamped lineup featuring Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta. Guidotti, reflecting on his tenure, acknowledged the team’s struggles but praised the riders’ perseverance. “The riders never gave up, and neither did the technicians,” he said. With Ajo at the helm, KTM aims to reclaim its competitive edge.

For Miller, the move to Pramac offers a fresh start, but Guidotti’s words linger as a cautionary tale. In MotoGP, where trust and teamwork are paramount, reputations are hard-won and easily tarnished. As the 2025 season looms, fans will watch closely to see if Miller can outrun the shadow of this controversy—or if Guidotti’s prediction of karma will prove prophetic.