Brad takes fifth place in Misano Sprint Race

Only days after the Catalan Grand Prix, MotoGP set-up in the sweltering climes of the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for round twelve of the series and a busy agenda. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing swelled to three runners with the addition of test rider Dani Pedrosa alongside Brad Binder and Jack Miller and with the knowledge that a full schedule of testing work remained ahead on Monday after the 27-lap race.

Hot summer conditions graced the 4km and 16 flat curves of Misano where high grip and tight turns formed the bulk of the challenge through practice and qualification. Brad made the cut direct to Q2 on Friday and was joined in group by Pedrosa who was just fractions of a second from the top of the time sheets.

The Sprint took place over 13 laps and through the hottest part of the day. Brad dropped back initially from his 7th place starting position but forced his way up to 5th with a combination of gutsy braking moves and expressive line choices. He closed-up to the Pedrosa/Bagnaia duel to make a three-way fight but missed another lap or two to nudge his way past.

MotoGP runs the habitual timetable on Sunday with the main event happening at 14.00 CEST.

Brad Binder

“I think that was the worst start of my life and I got hit three times on the first lap! It meant things were interesting after that! I put some moves out and had good pace. I could come back and catch Dani and Pecco, and it was a pity it wasn’t the full race distance today because I think we could have done something. In the end I was happy enough with 5th after everything that had happened. Dani was really impressive; he rides so clean, so smooth. He is special to watch.”