KTM rider Pedro Acosta expressed strong belief that Marc Marquez will continue to be the main contender in the 2026 MotoGP season, even after sustaining a shoulder injury. Marquez dominated the 2025 season for Ducati, securing 11 grand prix victories and 14 sprint wins en route to claiming his seventh world championship title.
This triumph marked Marquez’s first title in six years and highlighted a remarkable comeback following a severe arm injury he suffered in a crash during the 2020 Spanish Grand Prix. However, his 2025 campaign ended prematurely after he fractured his shoulder in a crash at the Indonesian Grand Prix just one week after being crowned champion.
Despite these setbacks, Marquez has been progressing well during recovery and is expected to participate in the upcoming Sepang test. Questions remain regarding his full fitness, but Acosta remains certain that Marquez will maintain his status as the rider to beat.
I mean, he doesn’t want it, but he’s the guy who should have the number one on the fairing,
Acosta remarked after KTM’s 2026 launch on Tuesday.
He further noted Marquez’s resilience and talent, referring to how the reigning champion overcame a five-year title drought to immediately challenge for the championship after switching to a factory bike. Acosta added,
“For sure, even with his injury, he will be the man to beat.”
While acknowledging other strong competitors such as Marco Bezzecchi, Alex Marquez, and Pecco Bagnaia, Acosta emphasized the unique challenge posed by Marc.
But Marc will be the man to beat for everyone.
Acosta Highlights Collaboration with Carmelo Morales Ahead of New Season
Acosta revealed that since last season, he has been working closely with former racer Carmelo Morales, who has been instrumental in his mental development as a competitor. This partnership has been a significant factor in Acosta’s progress.
Well, last season I started to work with Carmelo Morales,
Acosta stated.
Though Morales has limited full-time world championship experience, Acosta values his expertise highly and credits him for supporting his most substantial mental growth.
Acosta plans to continue this collaboration into the 2026 season.
He was on top of me the whole winter, and I think we were making good preparations for this.
Looking Ahead to a Competitive 2026 MotoGP Season
Marc Marquez’s return from injury and Pedro Acosta’s preparations suggest the upcoming MotoGP season will be fiercely contested. Marquez’s dominance during 2025, combined with his determination to compete despite physical setbacks, solidifies his role as the benchmark for other riders.
Acosta’s confidence in the Spanish champion, paired with his own evolving skill under Morales’s guidance, hint at an exciting season where established champions and emerging talents will clash for the top honors. The Sepang test will offer a key glimpse into Marquez’s readiness and the state of competition as the new campaign approaches.
