Brad Binder eyes COTA redemption after ‘short’ and frustrating Brazilian GP crash

Red Bull KTM rider Brad Binder has turned his attention to the US Grand Prix after enduring a frustrating Brazilian Grand Prix that ended prematurely due to a costly crash.

Having started down in 21st, Binder made encouraging progress through the field, climbing to 17th before his race was cut short on lap 4 of the main race. It marked a disappointing end to a weekend that failed to live up to the early promise shown by the Austrian team at the start of the season.

Binder leaves the round without adding to his points tally and currently sits ninth in the championship standings, 43 points behind leader Marco Bezzecchi and 29 adrift of teammate Pedro Acosta (42), who occupies third position.

With Austin next on the calendar, Binder will be targeting a stronger, more complete performance as he looks to avoid another early exit and regain his momentum in the championship. Looking back on the race, Binder admitted it was not the outcome he had hoped for, but remains focused on the upcoming challenge.

“Just a really short race. I started fast and passed a few guys at the beginning, but then went into Turn 1, locked the front wheel and that was about it," Binder said.

“I would definitely have enjoyed a few more laps. Onto America from here and we will see how we line up.”

Factory Racing team manager Aki Ajo also voiced his disappointment with the weekend’s results, citing the difficult conditions as a contributing factor, while remaining optimistic about their prospects in the United States.

“Of course, this weekend has not gone as expected, especially after a good Grand Prix in Buriram, but on the other hand it has been a really challenging couple of days for all of us with the weather conditions," Ajo said.

“Anyway, looking forward to COTA, which is a really different track and different conditions as well. I believe that we are ready to bring something home in Austin, and something better than what we experienced here.”

* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch