Picture Credit: Twitter
Brad Binder, the South African MotoGP rider who made history by giving KTM its first victory in the premier class, has extended his contract with the Austrian manufacturer until the end of 2026. The 28-year-old, who joined KTM in 2015, will continue to race on the RC16 bike for five more seasons.
Binder stayed with KTM after moving to Moto2 in 2017, finishing second in the standings in 2019, and then joining the Austrian manufacturer in MotoGP the following year. In his third race, he stunned everyone by taking the team's first-ever victory at the Czech GP. Binder went on to win again in 2021 at KTM's home race in Austria.
“A massive thank you to KTM and the management for trusting in me and for letting me be involved in this incredible programme for a few more years,” Binder said. “We are coming very close to what we want to achieve on the track but I cannot say enough good things about the team and my crew,” he further added.
Binder’s contract extension is a sign of KTM’s confidence and commitment to its MotoGP project, which has seen remarkable progress since its debut in 2017. The factory has secured three podiums so far, and it is currently second in the Constructors’ Championship. Binder is currently fourth in the Riders’ Championship with two podium finishes.
Francesco Guidotti, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager, said, “Brad is a rock of our team and it is great news that he will stay even longer with us. We’ve been building a relationship and a project for a long time now. He brings a winning spirit to our box but also stability and an important understanding of KTM.”
Binder will be hoping to continue his impressive form at the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend, where he finished third in qualifying.
