Image: Supplied.

A rear grip issue just seven laps into the Japanese grand prix denied Jack Miller of challenging for a podium in the 16th round of the MotoGP World Championship.

Starting from sixth on the grid, the Australian immediately placed himself in podium contention and showed strong pace in the opening stages, however the lack of grip saw him relegated down the field by the end of the 24-lap outing to finish in 10th.

“Unfortunately after seven laps, I started to have some problems with the rear grip and the situation got worse in the following laps,” Miller explained.

“From that moment on I could only try to get to the finish line. It’s a shame because I got off to a good start and I thought I could follow Marc and Fabio to the end. We have to analyse the data and see what happened. I am disappointed and can’t wait to be in Australia.”

The fan-favourite is now ranked eighth in the championship standings as the series heads to Phillip Island this weekend.