South African Brad Binder has been named Rookie of the Year in MotoGP for 2020.
He beat Spaniard Alex Marquez to that title, despite crashing out of the final race of the season in Portugal. The Red Bull KTM Factory rider won his first race this season, at the Brno in the Czech Republic, and ended 11th in the standings.
He says the rookie title was one of his aims at the start of the season, and he’s looking forward to improving next year.
The world title went to Spain’s Joan Mir.
Binder wins in Czech Republic
In August, Binder claimed his maiden MotoGP victory at the Czech Republic Grand Prix in Brno.
With nine laps remaining, South African rookie Binder overhauled early leader Franco Morbidelli of Petronas Yamaha before holding his nerve to seal victory in only his third start in the premier class.
The result also represented a first MotoGP win for KTM since making its full-time debut in 2017.
“Right now I’m lost for words,” Binder said. “This was a dream I had when I was a little kid. Thanks to everyone for supporting me.
“Hats off to my team, they did an unbelievable job. Hopefully it’s a first of many.”
