VR46 team principal Uccio Salucci has confirmed that the Valentino Rossi-owned outfit recently engaged in discussions with Pedro Acosta about his potential move to MotoGP in 2027. These talks come amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Acosta’s current position with KTM, where his performance and patience have been under scrutiny throughout the 2024 season.
Although Acosta remains contracted with KTM through 2026 and is expected to continue with the Austrian manufacturer next year, speculation suggests that both VR46 and Honda are interested in acquiring the 21-year-old rider for the future.
Insights Into Early Conversations and Team Strategies for Upcoming Seasons
Salucci disclosed that Acosta approached the VR46 team about their plans during a meeting approximately one month ago. When questioned at the Czech Grand Prix about rumours of a casual coffee meeting, Salucci responded with lightheartedness but confirmed the dialogue had taken place.
He emphasized satisfaction with current rider Franco Morbidelli, highlighting ongoing negotiations to secure his position for the 2025 season.
“But anyway, we are happy with Franco [Morbidelli] and for sure we will start to speak with his management to try to find the right way for him for next year with Franco.” —Uccio Salucci, VR46 Team Principal
Interestingly, Salucci revealed that conversations about the 2027 season have begun not only with Acosta but also with other riders, reflecting the team’s forward-looking approach.
“We already started to speak about 2027, not just with Pedro, because we need to start to speak now…” —Uccio Salucci, VR46 Team Principal
Morbidelli’s Role and VR46’s Expansion Beyond Its Academy Roots
Franco Morbidelli currently holds a one-year deal with VR46 and has delivered strong performances in 2024, standing fifth in the championship while returning to the podium. Although VR46 was initially founded to promote young talents from its own Academy, the team has recently expanded its roster by signing riders from outside the program, such as Fabio Di Giannantonio, who joined for the 2024 season without any previous Academy affiliation.
Prospects for Pedro Acosta: Factory Teams Await
Despite acknowledging the early 2027 discussions, Salucci expressed skepticism about Acosta joining VR46 due to contract timelines and the likelihood of the Spaniard joining a factory team instead. He mentioned that contracts with several major manufacturers, including Yamaha, Honda, and Ducati, will expire at the end of 2026, opening opportunities for riders like Acosta to secure factory rides.
Salucci remained open to reconsideration if circumstances change but predicted Acosta’s next step would likely be with a factory team, which fits his career trajectory.
“But all the contracts are freed up: Yamaha, Honda, and factory Ducati come to mind. At that point, someone like Pedro goes there, to a factory team, as is right.” —Uccio Salucci, VR46 Team Principal
Reflecting on the complexity of contract negotiations and timing, Salucci commented,
“It’s difficult. All the contracts expire at the end of 2026, so it seems unlikely to me that Acosta will be able to join our team. But never say never, if the possibility were to arise, we’ll definitely talk about it next year, we’ll see.”
Looking Ahead to the 2027 MotoGP Season
As 2026 contracts approach expiration, the unfolding dynamics will shape Acosta’s career choices and the composition of competitive factory teams. VR46’s proactive talks signal their intent to remain influential in rider development and team strategy beyond their Academy origins. Meanwhile, Acosta’s next move will be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike, as it will impact the balance of power within MotoGP’s premier class.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Pedro Acosta 31 or 37?
A. Before, Pedro wore the number 31 because the number 37 was already in use. His teammate at GASGAS Tech3, Augusto Fernandez, had claimed the number 37. Augusto started his MotoGP career in 2023 after he became the Moto2 champion.
