KTM are now in doubt about the 2027 factory lineup, which could provide a lifeline for Brad Binder.
The Austrian manufacturer’s star rider Pedro Acosta has apparently signed for Ducati at the end of the 2026 season. Pete Beyer did not give up on Acosta stay on KTMBut the fact is that he is already outside the door.
Tell the order of the KTM riders in the 2026 MotoGP rankings
with MotoGP rider market Fast forward to the 2027 season, and the team had to act to protect the Cavaliers. Alex Marquez is set to join KTM. From Gresini, fulfilling his desire to become a factory rider.
It has been widely reported Maverick Vinales is introduced from Tech3 In 2027 to the factory team in collaboration with Marquez. The action is shown binding He lost his seat, but KTM is now having a change of heart.
KTM ‘stays’ Maverick Vinales’ factory contract after poor 2026 start
In the year After the opening two races of 2026, it is clear that Acosta has established himself as a leading KTM rider. By winning the Sprint at Buriram, the Spaniard is the only man to get top performance from his bike.
With Jorge Lorenzo Vinyls In the year Considering its progress on RC16 in 2026, it is expected to have a strong start to 2026. However, Top Gun finished P16 in Thailand and P18 in Brazil after the first two races.
The 31-year-old is now in a tough spot as he can’t find a rhythm on the bike and is struggling to be competitive. There are rumors now. Vinales’ partnership with Lorenzo is fading. After the latter’s absence from the Brazilian GP.
Jorge Lorenzo thinks Maverick Vinales will beat Pedro Acosta in 2026 👀 Who is back to win the fight?
To add insult to injury, a report from Motorsport is revealing that KTM has put Vinales’ 2027 factory contract ‘on hold’. His poor start to 2026 has left the team in doubt over the line-up and he has ‘asked for more time’ to consider his options.
It’s a big positive for Binder, who believes it’s beyond the requirements of KTM beyond 2026. The team will further evaluate their riders, giving the South African more time to secure his future in MotoGP.
Read more: Everything you need to know about Maverick Vinales from career stats to net worth
Brad Binder ‘completely gone’ on KTM in 2026
In the year KTM has brought in a new team leader for the South African rider, and he will be looking to improve his fortunes after last year’s 22-0 loss to his team-mate.
Binder had a strong weekend in Thailand, finishing sixth in the sprint and seventh in the grand prix. However, Goiania clashed on Sunday and failed to pick up any points.
He was ninth in the standings entering the Grand Prix of the Americas, the second-highest KTM behind Acosta. However, his struggle is still there, with Binder ‘completely lost’ with new Air Force chief Phil Marrone.
With Vinales’ promotion in doubt, Binder has a chance to rest his seat instead. But if he wants to stay in MotoGP, he needs to turn his form around and approach Acosta.
Receive competition news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
