At the Mandalika circuit, Pedro Acosta achieved a significant milestone by becoming the only KTM rider to secure direct qualification for the Q2 session on Saturday. The young racer from Murcia impressed with a strong third-place finish during Friday’s qualifying rounds, standing out while his main KTM teammate Brad Binder ended the day in thirteenth place. Meanwhile, Tech3 team members Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales struggled, finishing fifteenth and nineteenth respectively.
Acosta Reflects on Performance and Ongoing Challenges
Despite his impressive qualifying time, Acosta remains cautious and measured as the weekend progresses. Speaking with correspondent Manuel Pecino, he shared mixed feelings about his lap times and comfort levels.
I should be quite happy because even though I didn’t feel entirely comfortable, I clocked in as fast as my Q2 time from last year during the timed training,
Acosta explained.
We had the potential to perform even better, particularly in the first Time Attack, but now we face crucial questions regarding tire choices for the races and the sprint.
Critical Role of Tire Strategy at Mandalika
Tires remain a key focus for Acosta, who discussed the nuances involved in managing tire wear throughout the race weekend. He compared this circuit to more demanding tracks such as Austria, highlighting differences in tire grip and wear patterns.
Some circuits are far more complicated than this, like Austria. The tire’s center is harder, and you try to minimize your time there, as it typically offers less grip than the sides. Honestly, the changes are subtle. When the tire is new, everything feels fine, but as it wears, you tend to experience more spin in the center.
Competition Assessment and KTM’s Position
Acosta openly acknowledged the gap between KTM and other manufacturers, specifically Ducati and Aprilia. He noted,
We are currently a step behind Ducati and a step behind Aprilia with Marco Bezzecchi.
Although finishing behind Bezzecchi and Aldeguer, Acosta remains positive about his rhythm and overall performance.
While we didn’t match Marco’s pace, we showcased a solid rhythm. Given the issues we faced, achieving a lap time comparable to last year’s qualifying was a positive outcome. We need to intensify our efforts on the bike’s electronics and setup because I didn’t feel entirely at ease, yet there’s much to be pleased about.
Ducati’s Unexpected Setback and Acosta’s Caution
It is notable that none of Ducati’s official riders advanced to the Q2 stage this time. However, Acosta remains realistic and unfazed by this development.
Give it time. Everything is about timing. They struggled last year too. Remember, Pecco didn’t make it to Q2 last year either, yet he won the Sprint on Saturday and secured a second-place finish. We know Ducati is fast. With Marc and Pecco, they have a fair chance to advance, along with Aprilia and three Hondas. There are numerous riders now clocking impressive times, making it an exciting contest.
Acosta’s Focus on Personal Growth Amidst Strong Competition
As the field tightens and many riders push for top finishes, Acosta remains focused on his own development and targets. He mentioned the increasing number of strong contenders, including Marc Márquez, Joan Mir, Raúl Fernández, and several Yamaha riders.
We can’t solely rely on Marc; we must consider Bezzecchi, and the emergence of Joan Mir who podiumed last week. Raúl Fernández is closing in, not to mention Yamaha with three of their riders in the mix. It’s not just about Marc anymore—there are other contenders pushing the limits. I’m concentrating on my craft and waiting for the right moment. If we keep progressing well, victory will come in due time.
KTM’s Progress and Acosta’s Long-Term Outlook
Acosta expressed genuine optimism about KTM’s evolution during the season, recognizing the steady improvements after earlier struggles. He emphasized the importance of consistency over time, noting that sudden success is unrealistic.
We can’t expect to transition from our early-season struggles to winning races overnight. We’re doing solid work, steadily becoming consistent in the top five, which was my primary goal—to find that consistency. It was a tough battle last year at this time, and I believe we are on the right track.
With the weekend still unfolding, attention remains firmly on Acosta to see if he can capitalize on his KTM Q2 qualification and challenge for a podium or victory, demonstrating the resilience and determination that have distinguished his career so far.
