KTM shake-up: Joan Mir emerges as Beirer’s bold pick — Brad Binder on notice

Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images

KTM shake-up: Joan Mir emerges as Beirer’s bold pick — Brad Binder on notice

Originally posted on HITC | By Tyler Rowlinson | Last updated May 7, 2026 9:30 PM ET

Joan Mir is now in contention for a 2027 MotoGP ride as Brad Binder faces increased pressure

Brad Binder is still trying to secure a seat with KTM, but the team have added Joan Mir to their list of candidates for 2027.

Binder, who has been with KTM since his 2020 debut, has played a key role in the team’s rise. But despite signing a long-term extension through 2026, he’s struggled to match Acosta this season. His qualifying performances haven’t helped either.

KTM have already moved to sign Alex Marquez as Acosta’s replacement, though nothing is official yet due to ongoing Concorde Agreement talks. But it looks like Marquez is set.

As for Marquez’s teammate, that remains undecided. Binder hasn’t been able to keep up with Acosta since he joined in 2025, and that gap has put his spot under real threat.

While there are no confirmed reports linking Honda’s Mir directly with a move, the interest appears genuine and would mark another big shift in what’s shaping up to be a busy rider market.

Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images

Joan Mir in the Frame as a 2027 KTM Target

KTM had been expected to move Maverick Vinales from Tech3 into the factory setup for 2027, but his contract is currently ‘suspended’ after a difficult start to the season that’s included both poor form and injury problems.

Binder still has a chance to hold onto his ride, but he’ll need a strong run of results. The competition for the seat is fierce, with Fabio Di Giannantonio already linked to KTM.

AS has reported that Joan Mir is also being considered by KTM. Mir appears set to leave Honda at the end of the year as Fabio Quartararo and David Alonso come in.

Di Giannantonio is wanted by several teams, including VR46, who are keen to keep him. If he decides against joining KTM, Mir could fill the vacancy – though Binder isn’t ready to give up without a fight.

Trackhouse is also interested in Joan Mir for 2027

Mir’s time with Honda has been difficult, with a series of crashes impacting both him and the team. With Tech3 expected to remain aligned with KTM and no openings at LCR, the 2020 MotoGP champion may need to look beyond the Japanese manufacturer.

KTM aren’t the only team showing interest. Trackhouse are also considering Mir for 2027, especially with Ai Ogura moving over to Yamaha.

Raul Fernandez’s future with Trackhouse is also up in the air, as the team haven’t made any decisions about their line-up for next year.

Aprilia could be another strong option for Mir. The bike is performing well heading into 2027, and his experience would add value to their programme.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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