Brad Binder’s Optimistic Outlook Despite KTM’s Struggle at Austrian MotoGP: A Step Closer to Ducati?

Brad Binder's assessment on KTM's performance, trailing by 18.6 seconds yet emerging as Ducati’s main competitor at the Austrian MotoGP home race for KTM.

Brad Binder from KTM is of the opinion that the team has made significant progress with its MotoGP motorcycle following the Austrian Grand Prix.

Anticipation was strong for Binder heading into KTM's local race, after he secured a second-place finish in both the sprint and the grand prix in 2023.

Nonetheless, KTM fell short of reaching the podium at the Red Bull Ring this past weekend, with Binder finishing as their top rider in fifth place, a significant 18.620 seconds behind the race victor Francesco Bagnaia, after starting from the 12th position on the grid.

"I couldn't have wished for anything better," he expressed, following his initial top five finish on a Sunday since the second round in Portugal.

"I truly believe I put forth my utmost effort from start to finish."

"I genuinely put in the effort to avoid any errors, aimed to establish a steady pace, and pushed through to the finish, all while being cautious not to excessively wear out the tyre.

"We successfully returned home with it in fairly good condition."

"Definitely, landing in the top five is a positive outcome. Naturally, I had higher aspirations, especially for our home grand prix, but I believe we've made some valuable discoveries during this weekend. So, let's continue to progress from this point."

This week, KTM is set to hold an exclusive testing session at Misano, featuring Dani Pedrosa. The aim is to fine-tune several aspects in preparation for the upcoming Aragon Grand Prix.

While not quite making it to the winners' podium, KTM secured its place as the leading manufacturer behind Ducati at the Red Bull Ring.

At one point, both of its team racers were among the top six until Jack Miller had an accident at Turn 2. Meanwhile, Pol Espargaro, racing as a wildcard, secured the 11th spot after successfully advancing into Q2.

Looking back at the weekend, team leader Francesco Guidotti remarked, "We must focus on the weekend's positive aspects."

Brad performed exceptionally well. He avoided errors and had an impressive beginning from the fourth row. He put in his maximum effort.

"His perspective on racing and demonstrated capabilities were clear to us. It was a pleasure to see Jack approaching the lead again, even with the minor accident."

"He delivered an exceptional performance during the qualifiers and secured the fifth position on the starting grid."

"He continues to contribute positively to the team's performance. Pol performed admirably, and his efforts this past weekend significantly benefitted the team's progress. The outcomes were consistently strong as well."

Transitioning from speaking into a mic to gripping the handlebars presents a significant challenge at this level, indicating that the bike's performance capabilities are indeed promising.

"We are putting in a lot of effort, and I would like to express my gratitude to all the supporters at our local race, as well as to every member of the company's staff and management who came to support us along the track and in the garage."

"Our objective is to achieve unique outcomes at this moment and return."

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