McPhee and Binder aiming for big points in Moto3 season opener

The hectic racing that is Moto3 rolls back into focus this week, as the season opener in Qatar gets underway on Sunday March 28. 

Following a three-day test at the Losail International Circuit, the Petronas Sprinta Racing Team look like on of the favourites given their performance on track and strong line-up of John McPhee and new acquisition for 2021 Darryn Binder. 

Both riders were quick in race trim and also one lap pace, and given the Losail circuit provides one of the longest straights on the calendar, qualifying is sure to be important for setting up a good race result. 

One of the keys to sustaining a title charge throughout the year especially in Moto3, is managing to get points on the board early, something McPhee is aiming to do. 

McPhee said: "I think it’s important in these first couple of races, especially being back-to-back, that we try to consistently be at the front – or as close to it as possible.

"I fully believe I have the race pace to fight for the victory, which of course is everyone’s ultimate goal.

"To do that we need to be within the top-five for the whole race, so we need to see if we can do that.

"Last year I finished second and was fighting for the victory for the entire race so we know it’s possible."

Binder goes into his seventh season in the Moto3 championship this year, and has a real chance of competing for the title after joining Petronas. 

Speaking ahead of his competitive debut with the team, Binder added: "We know a slipstream down the straight really helps in Qatar, so we need to watch out for that.

"Our race simulation that we did at the test was good though, so we have an idea of what to expect this weekend. I’ve gelled well with the Honda so I’m really looking forward to getting some good results with it.

"Of course I want to win, but this first weekend a good race would be finishing in the top-five.

"I think one of the most important things is to do a full race distance on the Honda. If I can be in the top-five I’ll be happy, and if I’m on the podium then even better.

The Moto3 race gets underway at 17:00 local time (GMT+3) and will be followed by Moto2 and MotoGP.