Driver manager Albert Valera talks about the future of MotoGP newcomer Pedro Acosta at KTM and defines a clear time frame for a decision
With Pedro Acosta, KTM has what is arguably the most talented rider of the future. However, Acosta’s start to the 2025 MotoGP season has been extremely rocky. The Spanish super talent struggled with the competitiveness of the KTM RC16 at the race weekends in Thailand and Argentina and is only in P10 of the drivers’ standings after two weekends.
Acosta had no chance against the Ducatis at the front with his KTM. Above all, the tire consumption of the KTM is a major concern. This led to rumors about the future of the Spaniard, who is under contract with KTM until the end of 2026. Acosta has already been linked to a potential move to VR46-Ducati.
The second seat in Rossi’s MotoGP team is currently the only remaining vacancy in one of the three Ducati teams for the 2026 season. However, Franco Morbidelli, who received a one-year contract for 2025, put in a strong performance in Argentina, finishing on the podium with the VR46 Ducati. There is doubt in the MotoGP paddock that Morbidelli will be dropped by Rossi.
For now, Acosta manager Valera is standing by KTM
Even though the start to the 2025 MotoGP did not go as hoped, Acosta manager Albert Valera is trying to take the pressure off. “I haven’t spoken to anyone. We’ve only had two races and we need to stay calm,”
“Of course, Pedro expected a bit more from KTM at the start of the season. This also applies to the other riders of the brand,” Valera looks at the situation at KTM. With Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, KTM has a strong line-up of riders. Nevertheless, KTM is only in fourth place in the manufacturers’ championship after the MotoGP weekends in Thailand and Argentina.
“We have to stay calm and wait for the upcoming races. After the European opener, we have to get an overview,” notes the Acosta manager. “Maybe he’ll have a great race in Austin or Qatar and then perceptions will change. So we have to wait and see.”
Can Honda catch up with the MotoGP super talent?
The competitiveness of the KTM RC16 is crucial for Acosta’s future. Last year, KTM was the second strongest team behind Ducati. However, it currently seems unlikely that the gap to Ducati can be closed. In addition, Aprilia and Honda have made some progress.
Due to the financial situation, KTM’s development was put on hold during the winter. Since the competition never sleeps, the gap to the top is widening, even if Ducati is only continuing with an evolution of the 2024 machine and not focusing on the GP25.
The question is which path Acosta’s manager should take. The Ducati is currently the best bike. But the factory team is fully staffed and the satellite teams are also well staffed. Honda’s rising form is fueling speculation, as Luca Marini’s contract expires at the end of the year. Will Acosta be HRC’s new hope?
“The year is very long, it has only just begun. I don’t think we should be looking at alternatives right now,” says Acosta manager Valera, putting a damper on the speculation. However, it is also clear that it will become increasingly difficult for KTM to keep Acosta if the competitiveness of the RC16 continues to stagnate.
