Brad Binder pushes for MotoGP return to South Africa

Red Bull-KTM rider Brad Binder advocates for Kyalami’s return to the MotoGP calendar.

Brad Binder of South Africa and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing looks on in the box during the Thailand MotoGP Test at Chang International Circuit on February 13, 2025, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Randy Ahmad and Yuni Utomo

Red Bull-KTM star Brad Binder has voiced his support for bringing a MotoGP event back to South Africa, suggesting that the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit could serve as the perfect venue. With the 2025 MotoGP season set to begin in just a week, Binder remains hopeful that his home country will return to the championship calendar.

The 29-year-old from Potchefstroom sees Kyalami as a prime location for a MotoGP race, describing it as a "classic roller coaster of the old school." The circuit, located just outside Johannesburg, has a rich history in motorsport and remains a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

Binder’s enthusiasm for Kyalami’s return

Binder recently visited Kyalami during his time off and expressed his admiration for the track. "I was last there just before leaving for the tests in Sepang and managed to get some laps in," he said. "It’s such an amazing track and such a cool place! I think it’s a shame that we don’t have either Formula 1 or MotoGP there at the moment."

The two-time MotoGP race winner strongly believes Kyalami could return to the championship with minimal modifications. "I really hope we can get Kyalami back on the MotoGP schedule," he said. "It wouldn’t require a complete overhaul—just a few adjustments to meet FIM standards."

What Kyalami needs to meet MotoGP standards

According to Binder, the circuit is already well-suited for top-tier racing. "For Formula 1, they might not have to change anything. For MotoGP, a few modifications would be necessary, but the track wouldn't need to be rebuilt," he explained. "There are certain regulations, like asphalt run-off areas that would need to be replaced with gravel traps. But beyond that, the track is in great condition."

The history of Kyalami in motorcycle racing

The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has a storied past in motorsports, having last hosted the Superbike World Championship in 2010. The last MotoGP event in South Africa took place in 2004 in Welkom, serving as the season opener. That race was won by Valentino Rossi in his debut for Yamaha. Kyalami, however, has not hosted a premier-class motorcycle race since 1992, when American rider John Kocinski took the victory.

With South Africa’s strong motorsport culture and a homegrown MotoGP star in Binder, the push for a return to Kyalami has gained traction among fans. However, logistical challenges remain.

Challenges to Kyalami’s MotoGP return

Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta recently confirmed that 28 venues are vying for just 22 slots on the MotoGP calendar. Given the competition, a short-term return for Kyalami is unlikely. Despite the obstacles, Binder remains optimistic, hoping that the enthusiasm of South African fans and the circuit’s racing legacy will eventually bring MotoGP back to his home country.

For now, Binder’s focus is on the upcoming MotoGP season, where he will once again be a key figure for Red Bull-KTM. While a South African Grand Prix may still be a distant prospect, his advocacy has reignited discussions about Kyalami’s potential as a future MotoGP venue.