Brad Binder says it’s “crazy” to think that when the championship returns to Brno this weekend in the Czech Republic, it’s five years since his sensational 2020 victory and KTM’s first MotoGP victory.
South Africa’s shocking victory was his third MotoGP start, solidifying his position as a rising star.
Currently, one of the most experienced riders in the category, Binder is about to launch a challenging 2025 campaign.
“It’s always cool to come back to any circuit where you have great memories. Especially when you think this is already five years, it’s crazy!” said Binder on Thursday.
Binder claimed his second MotoGP victory with a slick in the rain at the Red Bull Ring the following year, but he has not yet returned to the top step.
Heading back to the Brno round, the best results for binders this season are the sixth time, and KTM is still the only manufacturer without a podium.
However, the 29-year-old hopes that the newly resurrected track and its layout nature will play to match the strengths of the RC16.
“These corners can help us with a little longer and slower (corner exit) pickup,” explained Binder.
“That’s why our bikes get a lot better, but we don’t really understand it, especially until we get back on track tomorrow morning with a resurface.”
Private tests at BRNO are rumoured to have been helped by increased grip after seeing lap times of seconds under old lap records.
“There’s really good grip here and the lap times seem to be very fast. You’re hoping it’s five years of development anyway,” he said.
“I’m excited to move on. I feel like I’m slowly getting up again after a slump and starting work.”
The binder also gave insight into KTM’s technical struggle this year.
“The first issue (in the season) was an extreme amount of chatter, first at the rear and then at the front,” he said.
“We’re in control of it now. What we really benefit from is a little more front grip. That’s what we’re looking for.”
This is the 12th World Championships, following teammate Pedro A Costa (8th) and injured Tech3 KTM rider Maverick Vinals (No. 11).
Polpargaro, Binder’s 2020 teammate, will also return to the RC16 this weekend in place of Vinales.