KTM motorsport director Pit Beirer confirmed that despite the difficulties faced during the early part of the 2025 MotoGP season, the company continues to back Brad Binder and Enea Bastianini as they work through their performance struggles. The Austrian manufacturer’s MotoGP campaign has been hampered by both financial difficulties within the company and inconsistent results on the track, especially in the first 12 rounds of the championship.
Although the season showed signs of promise when Pedro Acosta claimed a podium with a third-place finish at the 12th round in Brno, overall progress has been slower than expected. Maverick Vinales of Tech3 secured a second place in Qatar but later lost this result due to a tyre pressure penalty, underlining the challenges the team has faced in achieving consistent success.
Brad Binder and Enea Bastianini’s performance difficulties acknowledged by KTM
While Maverick Vinales has generally outperformed his KTM teammates by adopting a smoother riding style that suits the 2025 KTM RC16, both Brad Binder and Enea Bastianini have struggled. Binder’s best finish so far was sixth place at the Spanish Grand Prix, while Bastianini’s highlight came during the Czech Grand Prix sprint where he finished third.
Pit Beirer emphasized that the responsibility to improve performance lies with KTM, not just the riders. He explained that Brad Binder has had difficulty adapting to recent changes in the bike’s setup, which has affected his confidence and ability to ride at his best.
We are definitely not happy with the performance we are having together, Brad and ourselves,
Beirer said during the German Grand Prix weekend.
He added that the rapidly evolving class demands continual adaptation and that some adjustments made to the bike have not suited every rider equally, with Binder feeling the effects most strongly. Beirer pointed out that while Vinales and Acosta have managed to find the right approach to the bike, the same has not yet been achieved for Binder or Bastianini.
Team’s plan to rebuild riders’ confidence and improve competitiveness
Beirer highlighted that regaining the riders’ comfort and trust in the bike is essential for them to compete effectively in this highly competitive environment. Without confidence, he stated, riders cannot perform at their peak.
So, we know clearly we need to give Brad a hand and he will bring us a step. I feel we made some progress lately.
The current manufacturers’ standings reflect the ongoing challenges KTM has faced, with the team sitting third behind Aprilia by 12 points but holding a 28-point lead over Honda. Pedro Acosta is the highest-ranked KTM rider, placed seventh in the championship with 124 points, followed by Vinales in 11th, Binder in 12th, and Bastianini in 17th.
KTM’s continued support for Binder and Bastianini underlines their commitment to improving the RC16 package and providing the necessary tools for their riders to regain form as the season progresses.
