Ducati postpones MotoGP launch after Miller COVID-19 positive

Miller has been back in his native Australia since early December, when he returned for a cameo in the Australian Superbike Championship.

He was due to return to Europe ahead of next Friday's pre-season launch, however those plans have been scuppered by Miller contracting COVID-19.

In a video posted to social media, Miller said he is asymptomatic and able to continue his physical preparation ahead of the new season.

However, the positive test means he's unable to travel and won't be back by the original launch date of January 28.

Ducati has now announced a new launch date of February 7, after the opening pre-season test in Sepang on February 5-6.

"Unfortunately, as you can tell, I'm still here at home in Australia due to testing positive for [COVID-19]," Miller said.

"I'm currently unable to travel and will miss the team presentation.

"I just wanted to let you all know that I'm doing fine, no symptoms, still able to continue with my training here on the farm. But unable to travel at this point in time. I'm missing you all and I can't wait to see you all very soon."

A wave of Omicron is currently smashing Australia's east coast with a record-breaking surge of cases through Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.