A hot, wet and demanding OR Thailand Grand Prix was the scene for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Miguel Oliveira to take his KTM RC16 to the top step of the podium for the second time in 2022 and for the fifth time in his career in the premier class.
MotoGP™ worked its way through 26 wet laps at the Chang International Circuit for the first Thai Grand Prix since 2019. As well as the physical and mental challenge, riders had to search for optimum grip after torrential showers had dowsed the track and even caused the Moto2 race to be shortened and then curtailed.
Oliveira, already a winner in wet conditions this year, was able to shine. His superior feel and speed through the final sector of the Chang layout enabled him to overtake Jack Miller and lead from the 14th circulation all the way to the flag.
Krugersdorp’s Brad Binder, making his first MotoGP™ appearance on the KTM RC16 in Thailand, launched from the fourth row of the grid and from a slot next to his teammate. He was hit inside the first two laps by Aleix Espargaro and forced off the track. From that point he fought his way back to 10th.
“I was really looking forward to the wet race today. I didn’t get a great start but passed a few riders and then on lap two someone hit me on the inside and I went off the track,” said Binder.
“When I re-joined deep in the pack, I couldn’t see anything! When I went down the straight it was like someone had a blanket over my eyes because of the spray. Luckily, I pulled back a few positions and managed 10th place. It’s frustrating because I know I could have done a much better job today. Next stop is Phillip Island.”
Raul Fernandez took his Tech3 KTM Factory Racing machine to 15th and the final points-scoring berth. The Spaniard had started to feel poorly on Thursday night in Buriram but produced an admirable performance to last the distance in Thailand. Remy Gardner crashed out through the first sector at mid-race distance.
Binder, 6th, is 25 points behind Jack Miller for 5th in the world championship. Oliveira is 8th while Red Bull KTM Factory Racing is now the third-best team in the series and KTM is fourth in the Constructor’s standings.
MotoGP™ gathers again at the scenic and flowing Phillip Island circuit for a long-overdue visit to the popular venue. The Animoca Brands Australian Grand Prix will take place on October 15 and 16.
