It was recently announced that Binder has signed a one-year deal to join Pol Espargaro at Red Bull KTM Factory, becoming the first South African to compete in the premier class since 2000.

The 24-year-old made his Grand-Prix debut in 2011 and claimed his first silverware in 2014. Two years later, he took the world title and became South Africa’s third world champion – and the first from his country in 36 years.

Having now spent three seasons in the Moto2 category, racking up eight wins and 15 podium finishes to date, he finished the recent championship in second place. Binder will pilot the KTM RC16 in the premier class next year, replacing Johann Zarco.

Following the announcement of Zarco’s exit, KTM motorsport director, Pit Beirer, felt it was clear that their plans must change: “After some thought and talks, we decided to move in this direction and let the young, hungry guys with good experience in the other categories of MotoGP show us what they can do.”

It’s a decision that has Binder excited about the future as the South African admits he is looking forward to the challenge: “I’m really keen on making the step up. For sure, it’s going to be a massive challenge and it’s not going to be easy by any means but I just think it’s going to be an amazing step.

“I can’t imagine lining up against the fastest guys in the world. There’s a lot of guys in MotoGP I’ve looked up to my whole career, and even when I was a child, and now I’m going to be on the same grid as them.”

To honour Binder’s achievement, sponsor Red Bull has launched a limited-edition Brad Binder can. He added: “It’s pretty crazy to have your face on a Red Bull can! I don’t think I’ll get used to it!”