Pedro Acosta is reportedly set to move to Ducati in 2027, creating uncertainty over his future with KTM. Following the 2026 Thailand Grand Prix, KTM’s motorsport director, Pit Beirer, expressed cautious optimism that Acosta might remain with KTM beyond this season despite the widespread speculation.
The Spanish rider had attempted to exit his KTM contract midway through 2025 and has been rumoured to be leaving the team at the end of 2026 amid intense MotoGP rider market shifts. Despite these reports, Acosta’s strong performance in Thailand has given KTM new hope about retaining their standout rider.
Acosta’s Championship Lead and Recent Race Performance
Pedro Acosta currently leads the MotoGP championship after securing second place at the Thailand Grand Prix. He achieved his first MotoGP win during the Buriram Sprint race, crossing the line ahead of Marc Marquez, though the victory was contentious due to Marquez’s penalization for a late maneuver, which handed Acosta the top spot.
Despite the controversy surrounding his Sprint race win, Acosta maintained focus at the main event on Sunday, battling fiercely with Marquez throughout and finishing just behind Marco Bezzecchi in second place. This solid showing highlighted Acosta’s competitiveness and potential as a genuine title contender this season.
Pit Beirer’s Determination to Keep Acosta at KTM
With Acosta holding the championship lead as the season approaches the Goiania race, KTM boss Pit Beirer remains determined that the 21-year-old continues racing for KTM. Reflecting on the recent Thailand GP, Beirer said that Acosta’s ambition centers on besting Marc Marquez, a goal he took significant strides toward during the race weekend.
Speaking to Speedweek, Beirer emphasized KTM’s commitment:
“That’s also why we haven’t given up on the idea of Pedro riding for KTM in 2027 – as we all know, giving up isn’t our strongest suit.”
– Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director
“The motto remains the same: all-in for 2026. That’s all that matters. The entire team is focused on nothing else.”
– Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director
Alberto Puig Backs Acosta’s Bold Step Toward Ducati
Though Acosta outperformed Ducati’s highest-placed rider, Fabio Di Giannantonio, by more than 11 seconds in Thailand—ending a streak of 89 races with a Ducati rider on the podium—rumors persist that he will join Ducati in 2027. Honda team principal Alberto Puig has praised Acosta’s choice to move to the Bologna-based team, describing the transition as courageous.
Puig highlighted the challenge Acosta will face in competing with Marc Marquez, who is reportedly extending his Honda contract. He placed Acosta on a similar level as Marquez regarding skill and potential, noting that at just 21, Acosta has a lengthy career ahead and is poised to challenge the nine-time world champion.
Acosta Responds to Marquez’s Comments Amid Rising Tensions
Following a comment from Marquez regarding Acosta’s brief lead in the championship, the young rider clarified to reporters in Thailand that his position at the top was not a temporary or insignificant achievement. The dynamic between the two riders adds an extra layer of tension to the season as both vie for supremacy.
