Casey Stoner Praises Brad Binder: A Complete Racer for His Time
In the high-octane world of MotoGP, where every millisecond counts and every decision on the track can make or break a career, it takes someone extraordinary to stand out as a complete racer. One name that has been ringing loudly through the paddocks in recent years is Brad Binder. With his fearless style, relentless determination, and ability to adapt to different situations, Binder has quickly become a formidable force in the premier class. Now, even one of the sport’s greatest champions, Casey Stoner, has come forward to acknowledge Binder’s growing legacy, calling him “one of the most complete racers of his time.”
Brad Binder’s rise in the world of MotoGP has been nothing short of meteoric. After dominating in the lower classes, Binder made his MotoGP debut in 2020 with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, and it wasn’t long before the South African rider made a lasting impression. He secured KTM’s first-ever MotoGP victory in just his third race, at the Czech Republic Grand Prix, and his aggressive, never-give-up attitude on the bike caught the attention of fans and fellow riders alike.
Casey Stoner, who himself was renowned for his aggressive riding and his natural ability to extract the maximum potential out of any motorcycle he rode, has kept a close eye on Binder’s journey. Stoner, a two-time MotoGP World Champion and widely regarded as one of the greatest talents in the sport’s history, has never been one to lavish praise lightly. His acknowledgment of Binder as a complete rider, therefore, carries significant weight.
In a recent interview, Stoner was asked about the current crop of MotoGP riders, and it was here that he singled out Binder for special praise. According to Stoner, Binder represents the “perfect balance” of aggression, intelligence, and adaptability—qualities that are crucial for success at the highest level of racing.
“Brad Binder is one of the most complete racers I’ve seen in a long time,” Stoner remarked. “He’s got the ability to push to the limit when he needs to, but he also knows how to manage a race, how to think strategically. That’s what sets him apart.”
Stoner highlighted Binder’s fearlessness as one of his strongest traits, recalling several instances where the KTM rider seemed unfazed by difficult conditions or adverse situations. Whether it’s racing in the wet or navigating tight battles in the middle of the pack, Binder has consistently shown that he’s unafraid to take risks, and more often than not, those risks pay off.
“He’s not just quick,” Stoner continued. “He’s smart. He knows how to manage the tire life, he knows how to conserve fuel, and he’s very good at reading the race as it unfolds. It’s something you don’t always see in young riders, but Brad’s been doing it since he arrived in MotoGP.”
For those who followed Casey Stoner’s career, there are undeniable parallels between his riding style and that of Brad Binder. Stoner, who often pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a motorcycle, was known for his ability to ride beyond the limit, frequently delivering performances that left fans and competitors in awe. Binder, too, has exhibited that same level of tenacity, taking on challenging conditions with an all-or-nothing mentality.
Binder’s aggressive style can be seen in races where he carves through the field, often making overtakes that leave little margin for error. This sort of bold riding has drawn comparisons to Stoner’s own approach, particularly in the way Binder rides the KTM, a machine that, much like Stoner’s Ducati, has historically been considered difficult to tame.
Stoner was quick to draw attention to this aspect of Binder’s riding, acknowledging that the South African rider’s ability to extract performance from the KTM is a sign of true talent.
“It’s not easy to ride a bike like that,” Stoner explained. “But Brad’s shown that he can handle it, and not only that, he can win on it. That tells you everything you need to know about how good he is.
In the world of MotoGP, being fast on a particular track or under certain conditions is not enough. The truly great riders are those who can adapt to any situation—be it rain, high temperatures, or a tough qualifying session. According to Casey Stoner, this is another area where Brad Binder excels.
“His versatility is one of his greatest strengths,” said Stoner. “I’ve seen him perform well in all sorts of conditions—whether it’s pouring rain or scorching heat, he’s always competitive. That’s the hallmark of a complete rider.”
Binder’s adaptability has been on full display throughout his career, particularly in the challenging moments when other riders falter. His ability to manage tires and keep his composure in high-pressure situations has earned him a reputation as one of the grid’s most consistent performers. This consistency, combined with his raw speed and racecraft, is what has caught the attention of legends like Stoner.
As Brad Binder continues to evolve as a rider, many in the MotoGP world are beginning to see him as a future title contender. While the competition is fierce, especially with the likes of Francesco Bagnaia, Marc Marquez, and Fabio Quartararo, Binder has shown that he has what it takes to compete at the very top. His current contract with KTM, extended until 2026, is a clear sign of the faith that the team has in his abilities and his potential to bring home a championship.
Stoner, who knows a thing or two about what it takes to win a world title, was candid in his assessment of Binder’s championship prospects.
“Brad has all the tools to become a world champion,” Stoner said. “He’s shown that he can win races, and if he can maintain that consistency throughout a season, there’s no reason he can’t be at the top. He’s got the speed, the intelligence, and the determination—it’s just a matter of putting it all together.”
Casey Stoner’s high praise for Brad Binder underscores the level of talent and potential that the South African rider brings to MotoGP. To be called one of the most complete racers of his time by a legend like Stoner is no small feat, and it speaks to the respect that Binder has earned from his peers and predecessors alike.
As Binder continues to refine his craft and push for more victories, the question remains: will he follow in the footsteps of greats like Stoner and claim his place among the sport’s elite? If his trajectory so far is any indication, the answer seems to be a resounding yes.
