BINDER & MILLER CHASE THE NIGHT AT QATAR TEST

In the captivating world of MotoGP™, where speed and precision blend into a high-octane spectacle, the pre-season tests are much more than mere rehearsals; they are a declaration of intent, a preview of the battles to unfold. As the 2024 MotoGP™ season gears up, the spotlight turned to the Losail International Circuit in Qatar for the second pre-season test, marking a pivotal moment for teams and riders alike. Among them, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s duo, Brad Binder and Jack Miller, embarked on a nocturnal chase under the floodlights, pushing the boundaries of speed and engineering.

The transition from the humidity and heat of Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit to the cooler evenings and challenging conditions of Qatar offered a different battlefield for the MotoGP™ contenders. Over two days and fourteen hours of testing, the Red Bull KTM team showcased resilience and ambition, clocking in almost 220 laps in their relentless quest for the perfect setup.

Promising Results Amidst Fierce Competition
Brad Binder and Jack Miller’s performance in Qatar was nothing short of promising. Both riders managed to eclipse the lap record set in 2023, with Binder securing the 9th fastest time and Miller close behind in 11th. Their efforts signaled Red Bull KTM’s aspirations for the upcoming season. Binder’s 106 laps culminated nearly two-tenths of a second under the previous lap record, with Miller’s 112 laps a mere tenth of a second behind his teammate, showcasing the tight competition within the team and the grid at large.

Technical Advances and Strategic Focus
The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team took full advantage of the Qatar test to refine their strategies and machine setups. Focusing on aerodynamics and other modifications gleaned from the earlier Malaysia test, the team worked meticulously to confirm their configurations. The emphasis was on race day strategy, considering the introduction of the 11-lap Sprint and the traditional 22-lap Grand Prix formats. This comprehensive approach underlines the team’s commitment to excel in the 2024 MotoGP™ season.

Looking Ahead to the Grand Prix of Qatar
With the pre-season tests wrapped up, all eyes are now on the Grand Prix of Qatar, the inaugural race of the 2024 season. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, buoyed by their Qatar test performance, looks forward to returning to the Lusail International Circuit, a venue where they have previously achieved commendable results. The countdown to March 8th begins, marking the start of what promises to be an exhilarating eighth season for the team in the MotoGP™ premier class.

Team Voices: Optimism and Resolve
Brad Binder reflected on the test with optimism, citing improvements and expressing eagerness to see how the team stacks up in the upcoming race. Jack Miller shared this positive outlook, emphasizing the bike’s competitive edge and the minor adjustments still to be made. Team Manager Francesco Guidotti and Technical Manager Sebastian Risse echoed these sentiments, highlighting the progress made and the confidence in their package for the 2024 campaign.

As the MotoGP™ world turns its gaze to Qatar for the season opener, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s strong showing in the pre-season test sets the stage for what could be a defining year for the team. With Binder and Miller at the helm, the chase through the night has just begun, and the quest for glory is more fervent than ever.