Pedro Acosta has offered a strong show of support for Brad Binder, saying the South African deserves to remain in MotoGP even as questions continue to surround his future beyond the 2026 season.
Binder's contract with KTM expires at the end of this year, and with the manufacturer already reshaping its 2027 rider line-up, the 30-year-old faces an uncertain future after a difficult campaign. Once the cornerstone of KTM's MotoGP project, Binder has struggled to match the performances expected of him since Acosta joined the factory team.
Despite Binder's recent results, Acosta believes his teammate has earned the right to continue competing at the highest level.
"I would definitely give Brad a MotoGP bike," Acosta said. "There have been very few people who have worked as hard as he has. For one reason or another, the results haven't come, but he absolutely deserves a place on the grid."
Source: Corsedimoto
Acosta even joked that he would hand Binder his own motorcycle if it meant keeping him in MotoGP, although he quickly clarified it would not be his 2027 bike.
Binder, however, remained cautious when asked about his future. Responding to Acosta's comments, he admitted he liked the idea but said nothing has been decided.
"My manager is doing his job, and we'll know a lot more over the next couple of weeks," Binder said. He also declined to rule out a move to the World Superbike Championship, saying all options remain open.
Binder has played a pivotal role in KTM's rise in MotoGP, winning the manufacturer's first premier-class race and helping establish the Austrian brand as a regular front-runner. While his recent form has raised doubts over his place in the 2027 grid, Acosta's public backing highlights the respect Binder continues to command within the KTM garage.
