As Qatar replaces Asia for 2024’s second pre-season test as Red Bull KTM aims for optimal setup. In a strategic move, MotoGP shifted its pre-season testing from Asia to the Middle East, specifically from Malaysia to Qatar, setting the stage for the upcoming 2024 campaign. The MotoGP Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team made their mark during the two-day session, with Brad Binder securing the 9th fastest time and Jack Miller following closely in 11th place, clocking almost 220 laps in pursuit of the perfect setup for the new racing calendar.

Red Bull KTM’s Strong Showing

• Surpassing Records:

Both Brad Binder and Jack Miller showcased a promising performance, surpassing the lap record set in 2023 and clocking times over a second faster than the best race time from the previous year.

•  Brad Binder’s Dominance:

The outstanding performance of Brad Binder comprised of a total 106 laps, with a time nearly two tenths of a second under the lap record and six tenths from the leader in the Qatar test.

• Jack Miller’s Close Pursuit:

Jack Miller closely trailed his teammate, completing 112 laps around the challenging Lusail International Circuit, just over a tenth of a second behind Binder.

• Grand Prix Preview:

The team’s focus now shifts to the Grand Prix of Qatar, where they achieved 2nd and 5th position finishes in the last two editions of the race.

KTM’s Terrain Swap

KTM embraced a drastic change in conditions, moving from the heat and humidity of Sepang International Circuit to the evening lights, strong breeze, and sandy terrain of the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar. This relocation provided the team with the last opportunity to fine-tune the KTM RC16 for the upcoming MotoGP season.

MotoGP Red Bull KTM Rider Perspectives

Brad Binder (9th):

Described the day as “pretty cool,” highlighting the team’s ability to test various settings and conduct a full race simulation. Despite some challenges, Binder expressed satisfaction with the bike’s performance and anticipated further improvements in the upcoming races.

Jack Miller (11th):

Reflected on a positive last day, making setup changes and expressing confidence in the team’s readiness for the season. Miller acknowledged the tricky conditions off the racing line but remained optimistic about the team’s competitiveness.
Team Management’s Perspective

Francesco Guidotti (Team Manager):

Emphasized the team’s progress, acknowledging the positive step forward from their previous performance in Qatar. While recognizing the need for further improvements, Guidotti expressed confidence and readiness for the upcoming season.

Sebastian Risse (Technical Manager MotoGP):

Concluded the winter test program with satisfaction, noting the refining and confirming of conceptual work done in Sepang. Risse highlighted the team’s confidence in their package and expressed anticipation for the first race.

Lusail Official Test Final Combined Times

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati) – 1:50.952
Enea Bastianini (Ducati) +0.120
Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia) +0.308
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM) – 1:51.583
Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM) – 1:51.720

As the 2024 MotoGP season looms closer, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing is poised to make a significant impact with their competitive performance and continuous pursuit of excellence.