Brad Binder | Saturday Motegi

Saturday
The threat of a typhoon meant that proceedings were somewhat disrupted at the Motegi circuit. Due to fog the medical helicopter was unable to take off, this put an end to any hopes of practice on Friday. The conditions improved slightly on Saturday but only in the afternoon. This resulted in a modified schedule where the first session was qualifying. Sunday would house extra practice sessions from as early as 6am.

Having been on the Mahindra for so little time, every practice session was crucial for Brad and his Ambrogio Racing Team. Going straight into qualifying was less than ideal, but it was the same for everyone and Brad at least had knowledge of the track. The young South African immediately got to work in the wet conditions, attempting to balance putting in a fast lap and finding a good setting for the bike. He eventually finished in 15th, with a 2’11.973. ”This weekend has been a bit hectic. We basically just sat around doing nothing all yesterday and this morning so that was a shame. When we did get out there was extra pressure to go out and push push push because it was straight into qualifying. Not ideal. I’m pretty happy with our position overall. I don’t know what the weather will be like tomorrow but I’m ready to fight for some points.”