Italian Grand Prix, Mugello — Round 7, 2026. Not every race tells the story of a podium.
Sometimes, the greatest stories are written in the spaces between — in the quiet determination of a man who gives everything, even when the machinery doesn’t match his heart.
At a breathtaking Mugello, South Africa’s own Brad Binder crossed the line in 11th place at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. It wasn’t the result the #33 faithful were hoping for, but it was a result earned with every ounce of professionalism and resilience that has made Binder one of MotoGP’s most beloved competitors.
Brad finished 11th, outdragging the factory Honda duo of Joan Mir and Luca Marini to the line  — a reminder that even on a tough day, Binder never stops racing. He crossed the finish line ahead of more than half the grid at one of the most technically demanding circuits on the calendar.
Binder was refreshingly honest in the aftermath, posting with characteristic humility: “Just didn’t have the speed to go forward and fight with the boys ahead. Straight onto Balaton 🇭🇺” — three sentences that tell you everything about the man. No excuses. No drama. Just a quick acknowledgement, and eyes already fixed on what comes next.
Brad Binder previously held the outright MotoGP top speed record at Mugello — 366.1 km/h, set back in 2023  — proof that the pace and bravery are always there. Today just wasn’t his day.
“We’ll try and find some pace tomorrow, balance things out and get more involved in the fight” – Binder after Saturday’s Sprint
And he delivered exactly that attitude. He showed up, raced clean, and finished ahead of factory Honda machinery.
The next stop is the Hungarian Grand Prix at Balaton Park — a circuit where KTM has shown stronger form, and where Binder will be looking to remind everyone what he’s capable of.
South Africa, your man is already on his way to Hungary. 🇿🏍️ Brad Binder — #33 — Red Bull KTM Factory Racing
📸 Images via Red Bull KTM
