Yamaha announced this Thursday that the RNF team – which was born on the basis of the disappeared Petronas SRT – will be its satellite formation in MotoGP from 2022, with the option to continue in 2023 and 2024. In addition, the new structure has communicated that WithU – electricity, gas, mobile phone and internet company – will be the main sponsor.
Darryn Binder has also been confirmed as the team’s second driver for the 2022 season, with an option for 2023, partnering veteran Andrea Dovizioso.
Darryn Binder, Andrea Dovizioso, RNF Racing, Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal, RNF Racing, Matteo Ballarin, President of Europe Energy Group
The 23-year-old from Potchefstroom, brother of Brad ( Red Bull KTM ), came to the World Championship in 2015 and has been in Moto3 ever since. Last season he has competed with Petronas . He currently occupies sixth place in the general table, with 123 points, two podiums and as many pole positions.
Binder tested the standard Yamaha R1 last August at the Brno Circuit, but could not get on the MotoGP M1 since the tuning fork brand does not have concessions to do unlimited tests and would have had a day of tests.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity as it has been my lifelong dream to race in the MotoGP class,” Binder said in the team’s statement. “I definitely didn’t expect to jump directly from Moto3 to the highest category, but I think I’m ready for the challenge, and I’m willing to work hard for 2022.”
“My goal at first will be to just find my place in the sport and learn as much as possible to get stronger throughout my rookie season.”
“I would like to thank Yamaha and the RNF MotoGP team for everything they have done to make this possible, as well as everyone who has been involved to get to this point.”
“Now I just hope I can ride the Yamaha YZR-M1 for the first time at the end of this season.”
Binder becomes the first rider to make the jump directly from Moto3 to MotoGP since Jack Miller in 2015.
(Click on the image to see the photos of Darryn Binder’s 2021 season in Moto3)
