The MotoGP race was filled with drama from the word go as a horrific accident could have claimed the lives of numerous riders, including Valentino Rossi and Brad Binder. Luckily no-one was harmed during the incident.

South Africa’s Binder had another phenomenal race by finishing in fourth after starting in 17th on the grid.

Although he did not finish in a podium position, Binder, was happy with his performance nevertheless.

“Today was much better than we expected. I was happy with the 4th position, I have to say.

“It was tough at the beginning because I was able to make up places and it was a shame about the red flag but it did give me an opportunity to restart from higher up on the grid.

“I didn’t pass too many riders after the restart but there were a lot of crashes.

“On the one hand I’m quite satisfied but then I was also pretty lucky. Things turned out well but let’s work again for next week.”

Binder's teammate, Pol Espargaro, was looking good for a podium finish until he crashed out. 

Following the race, he lamented the team for not making use of the right tyres. 

“In the first race we were so strong and I was even able to go away and take a gap over Dovi but then we stopped. 

“We didn’t have the proper tyre for the second race and I paid for that. I knew I would have only three laps before the rear tyre would drop. I was wide - because I was going wide in all the corners - and Miguel in that place was a little bit wide as well. 

“I was opening the throttle outside and so was he on the inside, he couldn’t see me and I couldn’t see him so we collided. 

“This is exactly what we call a race incident. It is what it is. I felt I had the best bike, an amazing bike in the first race. So, I’m looking forward to racing here again next week.”

The riders and team remain in Spielberg this week for the BMW M Grand Prix of Styria.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport