The 24-year-old Enea Bastianini of Italy, who rides for Gresini Racing, won the Grand Prix following an incredible and emotional ride at the Lusail International Circuit.

Binder, who started in seventh on the grid got off to a great start and rode in the top three for the duration of the race.

Following his race, the Potchefstroom-born Binder said it was a good weekend for KTM and he believes that it can only get better with some more fine-tuning, especially to the rear of the bike.

“It was a great day, actually, all weekend was great. To top the timesheets in FP1 on Friday was a bit of a shock. 

“So, I knew we were at a really good level. That being said, we had some issues over the weekend, but honestly, I felt so good and had so much confidence on the bike from beginning to end.

“I want to say yes, but I don't want to jinx anything. I really do believe that we've got what it takes to run with the top boys week-in and week-out.

“Our bike is working incredibly well and more than anything, I'm so confident with the front-end. I know there are some improvements we can make on the rear, and when we do, I think it's going to give us a really strong package.”

Meanwhile, for Binder's brother, Darryn, it was a tough baptism of fire by finishing in 16th in his maiden MotoGP outing.

The next event on the calendar is the Indonesia Grand Prix on 20 March at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Lombok.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport