Pedro Acosta is preparing for his third season in MotoGP, still seeking his first victory in the premier category. However, after observing the lap times posted by Ducati riders during recent tests, the young Spaniard remains doubtful about his prospects in the upcoming season with KTM.
Despite enduring another competitive campaign on KTM machinery that many deemed less than optimal, Acosta will again race in the Austrian manufacturer’s signature orange colors. His past doubts about KTM’s prototype performance have not disappeared, but contractual commitments mean he remains with the team for now.
Acosta’s Future and Ducati Link Amid KTM Contractual Boundaries
Throughout 2025, rumors frequently connected Acosta to a move toward Ducati via VR46. Still, a combination of KTM’s hold on his contract and a reshuffling of other riders’ moves prevented any immediate transfer. These Ducati connections persist, with reports now indicating Acosta has secured a position with Ducati’s factory team beginning in 2027.
While this offers a longer-term goal, the 21-year-old rider is bracing himself for one more difficult season riding KTM machinery before making that transition.
Insights from Race Simulations Raise Concerns for KTM’s Competitiveness
Following the final day of testing in Sepang, Acosta openly expressed his apprehensions after reviewing the race simulation performances, notably those of Alex Marquez. The KTM rider was frank about the challenges ahead given the pace demonstrated by Ducati’s team.
Addressing journalists, Acosta said,
“That’s scary. And the way things have been going, it’s going to be a year of suffering and putting on a fake smile.”
He added,
“So, well, we know that Alex is very strong here, we know that Ducati is very strong here, the five were at the front. Only [Marco] Bezzecchi got in.”
Acosta also highlighted the progress of other manufacturers, stating,
“I think we have to wait, it’s too early. It seems that Aprilia is continuing on the path it was on last year. It seems that Ducati, I’m not going to say unexpectedly, but it seems that they have taken another step forward. I don’t know where from, because the bikes already seemed to be going very well, but it seems that once again all the riders are doing well.”
So, well, I think we have to keep working in our own way, because in the end we can’t control what others do.
Pedro Acosta, MotoGP rider
Acosta’s candidness has previously drawn criticism from KTM management, and his recent remarks are unlikely to go unnoticed by team leaders ready to push for better results. During 2025, a more measured approach had helped Acosta improve his on-track performances, but the upcoming year promises renewed pressure.
Acosta Continues Hunt for Maiden MotoGP Victory Amid KTM’s Development Struggles
Much of Acosta’s frustration reflects his ongoing quest for a first premier-class win. Last season, rookie Fermin Aldeguer claimed the top step ahead of Acosta, with Raul Fernandez closely following by winning in Australia. These outcomes underscored how KTM’s RC16 has yet to provide Acosta a consistently competitive package.
Considered one of the brightest talents on the grid, Acosta’s promising career has yet to deliver a MotoGP triumph. The 2026 season could offer new opportunities, but he will likely need a combination of his own skills and race-day developments to break through.
The season ahead thus looks set to be a testing period for Acosta and KTM alike, as they strive to challenge Ducati’s dominance and push the boundaries of their current performance.
