Brad Binder can’t ignore It: Pit Beirer’s Vinales comment signals the end
Vinales’ backer could lure Binder away from MotoGPIf Maverick Vinales becomes the “second leader” for KTM’s Tech3 squad, as hoped by motorsport director Pit Beirer, it could open the door for Brad Binder to make a switch to World Superbikes in 2027. Binder’s future in MotoGP is far from secure.
Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images Vinales’ backer could lure Binder away from MotoGP If Maverick Vinales becomes the “second leader” for KTM’s Tech3 squad, as hoped by motorsport director Pit Beirer, it could open the door for Brad Binder to make a switch to World Superbikes in 2027. Binder’s future in MotoGP is far from secure. His contract with KTM runs out after the 2026 season, and he hasn’t shown enough so far this year to justify a new deal—at least not one that would keep him with the factory team.
Since joining KTM’s MotoGP effort in 2020, Binder has largely been at the centre of their project. But his form dipped noticeably when Pedro Acosta arrived in 2025, marking what was statistically his worst season to date. Acosta has also noticed that Binder has found it hard going on the RC16 this season.
Photo by Mirco Lazzari gp/Getty Images Pit Beirer sees Maverick Vinales as KTM’s potential “second team leader” after shoulder injury Beirer has also acknowledged that KTM isn’t where it wants to be with Binder, Vinales, or Enea Bastianini. Vinales had a difficult start to the 2026 season after a screw from his left shoulder surgery in July came loose and began to cause tendon issues. Beirer remains confident in Vinales despite the injury setback, and now wants the 31-year-old to step into a bigger role behind Acosta.
There are reports that KTM may have delayed plans for Vinales’ promotion to the factory team in 2027. Speaking about Viñales’ recovery and role within the team, Beirer added: “At the Sepang test, he was totally fine,” Beirer noted, via Motorsport. com.