Brad Binder Reflects on Challenging Japanese GP: ‘It’s Not Just Me’ as Acosta’s Fall Highlights KTM Struggles

Brad Binder responded to Acosta's fall by saying, "I realized it wasn't only happening to me, so I needed to be extra cautious and manage the situation carefully."

Brad Binder experienced a situation akin to that of his KTM teammate Pedro Acosta, just one lap prior to the rookie's crash during the Japanese MotoGP on Sunday.

"A challenging race took place today. Early on, while attempting to advance alongside my teammates, I found myself repeatedly losing grip at the front," Binder remarked following his sixth-place finish.

After crashing during the Saturday Sprint while in the lead, Acosta was running in second position, sandwiched between Francesco Bagnaia and Binder, when he lost control and went off the track at the final corner of the third lap in the 24-lap race.

Binder disclosed that on the lap before Acosta's fall, he himself had nearly lost control at the same turn.

"On the following lap, I noticed he was struggling too, which made me realize it wasn't just my issue. So, I decided I needed to be more cautious and take better care of it."

"After around 6 or 7 laps, the situation became more manageable."

However, as the race neared its end, the front grip remained steady, whereas the rear grip had significantly diminished.

The South African stated that with roughly 6 to 7 laps remaining, the middle of the tire was entirely worn out, causing it to spin continuously down the straights.

"It was quite challenging to maintain cleanliness and consistency due to the significant lack of grip."

"However, it seemed like everyone had a hard time with that today. Just look at how large the differences were."

"Overall, everything else went smoothly. Although the race didn't meet my expectations, I gave it my all and that was the best we could do today."

Despite Binder not completing the Sprint because of a mechanical problem, Acosta's dual DNFs at Motegi have allowed Binder to reclaim fifth place in the world championship standings, edging out his soon-to-be teammate by two points.

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