Moto GP
**Title:** “Brad Binder Aims for Rebound at Red Bull Ring as KTM Struggles with Crashes and Consistency in MotoGP 2024
Brad Binder revealed that the most significant issue he faced in the 2024 MotoGP season was his frequent crashes. He noted that gaining more confidence in the front end of his bike has been crucial in reducing these incidents.
Brad Binder comes to the Red Bull Ring still seeking his first MotoGP victory since his 2021 triumph at the same track. Last year, he was the rider who came closest to challenging Francesco Bagnaia during Bagnaia's commanding performance at the Austrian MotoGP.
In 2022, Binder experienced his first season without a single victory since 2015. He returned to winning form in 2023, claiming the top spot in the Argentinian and Spanish Sprints. However, in 2024, he has yet to secure a win on any race day, whether it be Saturday or Sunday.
"It feels like ages since 2021," Binder confessed. "Sure, we've secured a few Sprint victories, but those don't really matter. Let's aim to win one of the main Grand Prix races again."
Consequently, Binder aims to regain the performance level he exhibited in Austria last year.
"Every year, we manage to discover something at this Grand Prix," said Binder. "Our bike seems to be very compatible with this track. The way our bike operates — with its late braking and the stop-and-go style — really benefits us here. The past few races haven't been in our favor, but we anticipate much better results."
"I'm thrilled to return to this circuit; it's a place where I've consistently had positive experiences and managed to perform well, regardless of a challenging season. Historically, it's been a pivotal moment for us, and I'm optimistic that it will be the same this time."
Brad Binder and KTM have experienced a downturn in their performance this season. Initially, the team saw great success with three podium finishes in the first three Grands Prix. However, they haven't secured a top-three spot since Pedro Acosta's third-place finish in the Italian Sprint in June. Binder's last podium was a second-place finish at the Qatar Grand Prix.
"Qatar went very well, and finishing second twice was fantastic," remarked the #33 driver. "During the race, I noticed specific areas where we faced significant challenges relative to our rivals, but there were also sections where I was able to gain considerable time. Overall, it was a very positive experience."
"However, in the subsequent races, we observed some challenges, indicating that we needed to make adjustments to improve our position in the standings."
In a light-hearted manner, Binder acknowledged that his frequent crashes in the early season were partly responsible for KTM's difficulties.
"The main challenge we faced was that I kept losing my balance frequently," Binder explained. "We had to discover a method to regain strong confidence in the front, and we've successfully achieved that."
"The team is putting in a tremendous effort, and the factory crew is tirelessly working around the clock. In my view, it's only a matter of time before we start securing podium finishes and, with any luck, victories."
Alongside its usual team of four riders, KTM has included its test rider, Pol Espargaro, in this weekend's event as a wildcard entry. While Binder remained tight-lipped about the specifics of what Espargaro is evaluating and any changes or innovations on his bike, he did express a positive and eager attitude.
"Clearly, I understand that Pol is working with a slightly different setup," Binder commented. "He has several new upgrades. It will be fascinating to observe their progress because the test team's efforts are geared towards our future and shaping what the next year will be like for us."
Binder mentioned that he is unsure about when he will have the opportunity to test the components that Espargaro is experimenting with this weekend.
"We don't currently have any information on when we'll be testing the bike ourselves. I'm really hoping that Pol performs exceptionally well and impresses everyone this weekend."
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