SA's Binder to race in MotoGP next season

South African Brad Binder will race in MotoGP next season after his deal with Red Bull KTM Tech 3 was announced on Wednesday.

Binder is currently racing in his second season in Moto2 for KTM Ajo after winning the Moto3 title in 2016.

Following a period of adjustment last season and a struggle with injuries, Binder has hit his stride this season and this announcement comes on the back of his three back-to-back podium finishes ahead of the mid-season break.

Said Binder: “(I’m) looking forward to it, it’s an incredible feeling, a crazy feeling to think that I’ll be racing in MotoGP next year. I just have to say a huge thank you to KTM for putting their trust in me and taking me through to the premier class and yeah, I’m really excited to get started next year and see how things go next year.

?? @BradBinder_41 will join @Tech3Racing in #MotoGP for 2020 ??

NEWS | ??https://t.co/5QX6H3ED0Q pic.twitter.com/jGzsFcFR01

— MotoGP™ ?? (@MotoGP) July 10, 2019

“Next year I think my main goal will be to learn as quickly as possible and learn from the much more experienced guys on the KTMs. I obviously want to go there and do well straight away but in MotoGP, everything is extremely hard and super tight so you know, I’m sure it’ll take time to find my feet in MotoGP but I’m confident we can do a good job there.”

KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer was delighted to announce his team’s new signing.

“To be able to sign Brad Binder for our MotoGP project is an exciting moment becausea he has been with us for five years already and is one of our world champions. We have a strong story and connection and we’re really happy that it continues,” he said.