Neil Hodgson warns Brad Binder must address key weakness to keep 2027 MotoGP seat

Neil Hodgson: Brad Binder needs to sort out his poor qualifying

Speaking during TNT Sports’ coverage of FP1 at the Spanish Grand Prix, commentators Gavin Emmett and Neil Hodgson broke down the issues putting Binder’s MotoGP future at risk.

Emmett noted that Binder’s name hasn’t come up much in early rumours, even as seats are quickly being filled. He also mentioned reports suggesting KTM may have already settled their rider line-up for 2027.

He pointed out that Friday afternoon’s pre-qualifying practice is a key area where Binder needs to step up, especially when it comes to his single-lap speed.

“Yeah, that will be basically what he’s been known for in MotoGP a little bit.

“But then, obviously, we’ve all seen Pedro Acosta; he’s incredible in qualifying. And because he’s so good at qualifying, that gives him a chance in the races. For Brad, it’s been such an Achilles heel for him.

“He’s weak in qualifying, and think of how fast he’s been in the races over the past 4 years, he always goes forward, super aggressive. But you’re right, his weekends are sort of shot on a Friday, he’s never directly through to Q2, and he’s missed out on so many occasions.

“He’s one of the riders who hasn’t got a ride confirmed yet for next year, so right now pressure is building. He has to make sure that he’s certainly inside the top 10. Otherwise, he might be sat out.”

Brad Binder, lacking a plan B if KTM decides to move on

If KTM do decide to make changes, it could signal the end of Brad Binder’s time in the premier class. It’s been suggested that he doesn’t have an alternative lined up if Alex Marquez is brought in and Maverick Viñales is moved up from Tech3.

Viñales’ slow start to 2026 has reportedly led KTM to ‘suspend’ their agreement with him, which could keep a door open for Binder if he can turn things around. But right now, there are no guarantees.

Binder remains popular among fans, and there’s hope he’ll find a way back. But as it stands, his future is very much up in the air.