MotoGP: Gardner steps up with KTM Tech3, Binder extends factory stint

Remy Gardner will step up to MotoGP for 2022 and steer one of the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing RC16s.

Gardner currently leads the Moto2 championship for Aki Ajo’s Red Bull KTM Ajo squad. The Australian won at the last meeting in Mugello and holds another five podiums to his name this season.

Gardner becomes the latest product to complete the KTM GP Academy career path by graduating into the premier class, following the example of the likes of Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder.

The 23-year-old debuted in grand prix racing in 2014 at Misano and spent a year in Moto3 followed by a five-year stint in Moto2. He progressed to be one of the main protagonists of the division under the guidance of Ajo and KTM.

Gardner said he is “extremely happy” to take the step up with the Austrian manufacturer.

“It’s a dream come true for me and what we have worked up until this point. It’s an incredible chance for me and I cannot wait to ride the bike. Right now we need to focus on finishing 2021 in a strong way.”

Remy Gardner

Gardner’s arrival at Tech3 will most likely be at the expense of Iker Lecuona. On the other side of the garage, Danilo Petrucci has been given the final call to step up his performance should he wish to keep his ride.

Moto2 rookie sensation Raul Fernandez has been rumoured as a potential Tech3 rider for next season, although the Spaniard keeps emphasising that he is happy to spend another year in the intermediate class.

Petrucci’s name has meanwhile been mentioned in connection with the World Superbike championship.

Binder renews KTM deal until 2024

Another piece of the KTM puzzle fell into place on Tuesday morning when Brad Binder signed a contract extension that will keep him in the MotoGP factory team for the next three years.

Binder too is a product of the KTM GP Academy and served terms in both Ajo’s Moto3 and -2 squad. During his grand prix career, the South African collected 15 wins and took the title in the lowest class in 2016.

He also became the Austrian marque’s first premier class race winner in his rookie season last year when he stormed to victory in Brno.

“The new deal will take the collaboration between Binder and KTM to ten years. “It’s incredible to have been with this manufacturer for such a long time now and we’ve always had a good relationship. I’m extremely happy in KTM colours so it’s extra satisfying to have a long contract signed-up. It’s cool to have that belief and support from a company, it’s an honour. It’s exciting to see what these next years will bring.”

Brad Binder