Brad Binder shows his class to contribute to KTM’s Spielberg party

Brad Binder secured a sixth-place finish at the Austria MotoGP on Sunday, a result considered bittersweet for the Red Bull KTM rider. Firstly, it represented his best performance of the season, yet it also highlighted his current capabilities on a competitive bike. The RC16 showcased its prowess at its home track, the Red Bull Ring, over the weekend, culminating in Binder's team-mate Pedro Acosta's triumph in the premier class.

Binder started the race from 11th position on the grid. He achieved a point during the Saturday sprint race by finishing ninth, which he further boosted to 10 points on Sunday. At one point, he was racing in fifth place, but ultimately fought his way back from seventh to cross the finish line in sixth. Binder expressed satisfaction with the weekend, stating, "Overall, I’d say a successful weekend here in Red Bull Ring and I’m happy to have got my best finish of the year. I would have liked to have been a bit further up the grid but I did my best."

Looking ahead, Binder will join the World Superbike Championship next year. He praised the team's efforts, saying, "I’m happy with the pace we were able to put together and happy with the work by the team. Well done to them, and also to Pedro on his first victory; I’m sure it’s the first of many." Currently, Binder sits 13th in the championship standings with 94 points. He has narrowed the gap to Enea Bastianini (97) and Luca Marini (98).

Meanwhile, Martin took the lead in the championship with a runner-up finish in the main race and a sprint race victory, bringing his total points to 306. Marquez trails in second place with 294 points, followed by Marco Bezzecchi with 264 points. Teenager Ruché Moodley had a disappointing weekend, finishing 19th and still without any points for the season. MotoGP will be taking a week off before heading to Japan and Indonesia for a double header.