Pedro Acosta has continued to impress since joining the premier MotoGP class with KTM in 2024, demonstrating remarkable skill, particularly in braking. Former MotoGP rider Nobuatsu Aoki recently praised Acosta, stating that he now possesses the best braking technique on the current grid. Acosta’s strong performance at the start of the 2026 season, including his first career win in the Sprint race and a second-place finish in the Grand Prix, highlights his growing competitiveness and sets him apart as a serious contender.
Nobuatsu Aoki Highlights Acosta’s Exceptional Braking Despite Technical Challenges
In an interview following the Thailand Grand Prix, Nobuatsu Aoki shared his insight into this year’s championship battle, calling Marc Marquez the
“strongest in terms of pure riding ability,”
while also recognizing Alex Marquez and championship leader Marco Bezzecchi as notable challengers. However, Aoki singled out Pedro Acosta for his outstanding braking skills, saying,
“Acosta is sometimes the best; he has the best braking technique on the grid.”
He added a caveat regarding the KTM RC16 bike’s handling characteristics:
“Unfortunately, it all depends on the performance of the rear tyre: the RC16 is very nervous in this area.”
Engineers in Mattighofen have worked persistently during the winter break to resolve issues that affected Acosta’s bike in the previous season. The improvements to reduce tire degradation appear promising based on early 2026 tests. Though KTM still trails behind Ducati and Aprilia’s prototypes, Acosta expressed satisfaction with the progress made in stabilizing the bike’s rear tire performance.
Pedro Acosta’s Growing Challenge to Marc Marquez’s Established Braking Reputation
Marc Marquez has long been regarded as the benchmark for braking excellence in MotoGP. Engineers have attempted to recreate his exceptional corner-entry technique for years but to no avail. Expert analyst Mat Oxley confirms that “no one” on the grid manages to match Marquez’s ability to maximize braking zones effectively, an attribute that has significantly contributed to his success.
With Acosta’s rapid improvement in braking technique, comparisons between the two Spaniards are becoming increasingly frequent, especially as Acosta prepares to join Ducati in 2027. Riding on equal machinery will offer a clearer picture of how Acosta measures up against Marquez’s legendary standards.
Acosta Responds to Marc Marquez’s Comments and Stands Firm
After the Thailand Grand Prix, Marc Marquez made remarks implying Acosta’s championship lead was temporary. Acosta dismissed this notion, telling reporters,
“it wasn’t a one-day [championship] lead like Marc said.”
His confidence after taking the championship lead at the season opener reflects his readiness to compete at the highest level despite the pressures of comparison and scrutiny.
The Broader Implications of Acosta’s Braking Mastery for MotoGP
Pedro Acosta’s emergence as a leader in braking technique signals a shift in the competitive landscape. This skill gives him a strategic advantage in races where corner entry speed and control are crucial. As KTM addresses technical issues and Acosta transitions to Ducati next season, the MotoGP community eagerly awaits how this duel with Marc Marquez will evolve. Acosta’s development may inspire new engineering innovations and raise the bar for rider performance across the grid.
