– Brad Binder looks tense but determined about his future in MotoGP. The KTM factory rider makes it clear that the groundwork in the paddock has long since begun, even though officially little has been announced yet.
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When asked if he feels additional pressure given the open driver market – most contracts end with this season – he admits: “Of course. At the end of the day, I am a MotoGP rider, that is my job. I believe this is my place on this earth. This is what I want to do, and I want to keep doing it.”
He describes the pressure less as an external influence and more as an internal drive. “Sure, more pressure. Not pressure from outside, but pressure,” he explains. This mainly stems from his own expectations.
No top results for a long time
Binder wants to deliver, and as soon as possible. For some time now, he has been trying to fully exploit his potential again. Accordingly, he clearly states his goal: “I want to get my things in order and try to get a good result.”
His last podium dates back to the 2024 season opener in Qatar. Since then, Binder’s results have fluctuated. Although the South African can usually place in the top 10, this is neither enough for his own standards nor for KTM’s. The benchmark is teammate Pedro Acosta, who performs better.
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Binder has no doubt that he is also capable of this. Looking back, he points to past performances that underline his level. Now it is about putting the details together: “I know I am capable of much more. I have shown it in the past.” The key lies in the details.
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“I feel that I really need to bring together a few small details. If that succeeds, I can make a good step forward,” Binder is convinced.
Probably no place left in the KTM factory team
Meanwhile, talks about the future are already underway behind the scenes. When asked if he is already negotiating for the coming season, the KTM rider remains open but reserved: “Of course. Everyone is talking, so if not, that wouldn’t be a good thing.”
However, there are no concrete results yet: “Nothing is signed or decided, but we are working on it.” An extension with KTM is likely to be difficult not only because of Binder’s mixed results. According to reports, the manufacturer is already planning the 2027 season with other riders.
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Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio are reportedly being discussed as the new duo for the factory team. If it turns out that Tech3 switches partners and opts for Honda instead of KTM from 2027, the Austrian team’s lineup would be complete.
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