Binder Sets Record in Catalan MotoGP Practice, Bagnaia 21st

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Brad Binder of Red Bull KTM shattered the lap record to lead the 2025 Catalan MotoGP practice in Barcelona with a time of 1:38.141, heading a KTM 1-2 alongside teammate Pedro Acosta. Meanwhile, Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati Lenovo struggled, finishing 21st, 1.029 seconds off the pace.

KTM’s Commanding Performance

Binder, who last topped a session in Japan last year, delivered an exceptional performance, breaking the previous lap record set by Aleix Espargaro (1:38.190 in 2024). Acosta, who led Free Practice 1, trailed by just 0.104 seconds. Alex Marquez of BK8 Gresini Ducati took third with a 1:38.280, followed by Marc Marquez of Ducati Lenovo in fourth (+0.224s).

As the session neared its end, Enea Bastianini of Red Bull KTM Tech3 briefly led with a fresh soft rear tire, posting a 1:38.972, before Marc Marquez responded with a 1:38.444. However, Binder’s late charge secured the top spot, unchallenged due to yellow flags from crashes by Johann Zarco and Bastianini at Turn 2.

Struggles for World Champions

Bagnaia, who won both Barcelona races last year, faced significant challenges despite using a new setup from Hungary. Disrupted by yellow flags, he ended in 21st, forcing him into Qualifying 1. Other recent world champions also struggled: Fabio Quartararo (11th, Monster Yamaha), Joan Mir (13th, Honda HRC), and Jorge Martin (18th, Aprilia Racing) will also face Qualifying 1.

Notable performances included Marco Bezzecchi (5th, Aprilia Racing), Franco Morbidelli (7th, Pertamina VR46 Ducati), and rookie Ai Ogura (10th, Trackhouse Aprilia), who secured direct Qualifying 2 spots.

KTM’s commanding performance suggests they are strong contenders for the weekend. However, riders like Bagnaia and Martin must overcome their early setbacks to challenge for pole. With Binder’s new lap record setting the tone, the qualifying and race sessions in Barcelona promise intense battles.

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