Binder returns to top five as KTM trio crack top six in Valencia MotoGP

Brad Binder landed his first top five finish since the Austrian MotoGP back in July with a confident run to fifth position in the Valencia MotoGP, while Miguel Oliveira just behind him across the line made it three KTMs inside the top six.

Though a race winner this season following his grandstand run to victory in the Czech Republic, Binder has managed only a single top five finish since then on the factory KTM, achieved during round four in Austria.

However, he was back towards the front in Valencia with a positive weekend that yielded seventh on the grid followed by a progression up the order to secure fifth at the chequered flag.

“Today was a positive race for us. I didn’t get the best of starts but I managed to find good pace, pass a few guys and work my way towards the front. I gave my absolute best today and unfortunately it was not enough to get us into that podium fight. 

“Overall, I’m happy with how we have made steps this weekend; from Friday through to the race. We have a lot of learning to do still but we’re looking forward to Portimao already. Thanks to the team and everyone for their hard work. We’ll push again next week.”

With Iker Lecuona sidelined by a COVID-19 diagnosis ahead of the race, KTM nonetheless made the most of its three bikes, with Miguel Oliveira following Binder home in sixth position ahead of his much anticipated home race in Portugal

“I’m happy about the race. My start was really good again, although I found it a little bit more difficult to keep the pace in the middle of the race. I couldn’t find good grip and basically I wasn’t able to stay close to the top five. 

“Anyway, this is what we take home and now we go to the home GP. I’m very excited. I hope we can have fun in the final race.”