Pedro Acosta reveals conditions for possible transfer to Ducati in MotoGP By Beatriz
5 min read
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Pedro Acosta, KTM MotoGP rider, expressed his perspectives for the 2026 season during a press conference before the Grande Prêmio of the Tailândia. Ele pointed out improvements in the Austrian bike, but recognized the current superiority of rivals such as Ducati and Aprilia.
The Spaniard, who finished the pre-season as the best KTM representative, compared his performance with that of his teammates. Acosta emphasized the focus on consistency to compete for top positions since the beginning of the championship.
Tests in Buriram revealed advances in the RC16’s stability, with greater tire durability in hot conditions. However, the rider warned of the expected dominance of Italian bikes on the Thai circuit.
KTM Advancements and Internal Comparisons
Pedro Acosta highlighted that the main difference between his approach in 2025 and 2026 lies in emotional control during races. Essa maturity allows you to better deal with negative moments, avoiding losses of crucial points. Ele mentioned that, in the previous year, he was consistently on the podium in the last ten races, which serves as a basis for greater ambitions now.
Comparing internally, Acosta considers Brad Binder to be the fastest KTM rider at the moment. Essa benchmark helps measure progress, especially after tests where the South African showed similar competitiveness. The Austrian team seeks to balance forces so as not to depend solely on one competitor.
Expectations for the start of the season
Acosta predicts a top 5 finish as a realistic target for the opening in Buriram, considering the circuit conditions and tires. Ele noted that tracks like Tailândia, Qatar and Jerez pose initial challenges, but the overall feeling on the bike is superior to last year.
The Spanish driver highlighted the importance of finishing sessions in the top five to accumulate points. Evitar zeros in the score is essential to fight for the top 3 at the end of the championship, according to your analysis.
Rumors about the future at Ducati
Pedro Acosta addressed speculation about a possible transfer to Ducati in 2027. Acosta remains realistic about KTM’s position compared to the competition.
Ducati has five strong drivers, which reinforces its current dominance. Aprilia also demonstrated superior strides in the pre-seasons, with advantages in grip and race pace. Acosta recognized these factors as barriers for teams like yours.
He mentioned conversations with his injured teammate Fermin Aldeguer, advising patience in recovery. Essa interaction reflects the team’s internal dynamics, focused on the long term.
Acosta avoided hasty projections, prioritizing immediate performance. Seus comments indicate that future decisions depend directly on achievements on the current track.
Technical and competitive challenges
The pre-season in Buriram exposed that Ducati looks even more dominant in 2026, with improvements that widen the gap to rivals. Acosta described the pace of Borgo Panigale’s bikes as impressive, especially on hot circuits. Aprilia, in turn, maintained the high level at the end of 2025, with progress in acceleration and stability.
For KTM, advancements include greater cornering stability and better tire management, but there are still gaps in pure speed. Acosta pointed out that the team worked intensively in the winter to reduce differences by testing new aerodynamic components.
These adjustments aim to improve performance on a variety of tracks, from Asian to European. The driver believes that consistency in different weather conditions will be key to scoring regularly.
Physical and mental preparation
Acosta emphasized the physical demand of the Buriram circuit, with high temperatures and humidity that test the drivers’ endurance. Ele adjusted training to address fatigue by incorporating race simulation sessions. Essa preparation helps you stay focused during the 27 laps of the main race.
Mentally, controlling emotions avoids impulsive reactions in fierce disputes. Acosta learned from past mistakes, such as risky overtaking that resulted in falls. Agora, prioritizes strategies calculated to maximize results.
KTM’s position on the grid
KTM enters 2026 with a balanced lineup, including Acosta, Binder, Maverick Viñales and others. Viñales, in particular, showed close performance in testing, suggesting that dependence on Acosta may decrease. Essa distribution of forces strengthens the Austrian brand against the Italian squad.
Acosta commented that the team avoided overloading a single driver, promoting collaboration on data and setups. Essa collective approach accelerates developments such as engine and suspension upgrades.
Perspectives for the championship
The 2026 calendar starts with demanding races, but Acosta sees opportunities on tracks where KTM historically performs well. Ele plans to accumulate points early to build momentum. The goal is to compete for victories in at least five races, based on simulation data.
Rivals like Marc Márquez, with his experience at Ducati, represent high benchmarks. Acosta studies driving styles to adapt techniques, improving cornering and braking.
The transition to 2027 regulations, with changes in engine capacity, influences current strategies. Equipes prepare prototypes, but the focus remains on the present.
Acosta maintains moderate optimism, recognizing that technological leaps from competitors require quick responses from KTM. Investimentos in research and development support this evolution.
Grande Prêmio details from Tailândia
The event in Buriram takes place under tropical conditions, with a start scheduled for 3pm local time. Acosta anticipates intense disputes in the first laps, where initial positioning defines the rhythms.
Teams monitor tire wear, adjusting setups to maximize grip. Acosta tested different compounds, opting for options that balance speed and durability.
Team strategies and partnerships
The partnership with Red Bull drives KTM forward by providing resources for innovations. Acosta values this support, which includes advanced training and data analysis.
Internally, communication with engineers accelerates feedback, refining the bike weekly. Essa synergy is vital to compete against factories like Ducati with robust budgets.
Acosta praised Binder’s progress, which serves as a motivator. Healthy Competição raises the team’s overall level.
Pilot’s personal evolution
Since his debut, Acosta has evolved from promising newcomer to regular contender. Suas ten podium races in 2025 prove this upward trajectory. Ele attributes successes to dedication and continuous learning.
Physically, conditioning routines include cycling and gymnastics, preparing for the demands of MotoGP. Mentalmente, sessions with sports psychologists strengthen resilience.
Climatic conditions and adaptations
Buriram often experiences unpredictable rainfall, requiring versatile setups. Acosta practices in wet conditions to remain competitive.
Teams prepare alternative strategies, such as quick tire changes. Acosta trusts the team’s precision to minimize pit stop times.
Impact on the pilot market
Rumors about Acosta in Ducati shake the market, influencing the negotiations of others. Sua decision depends on performance, but attracts attention from factories.
KTM seeks to retain talent by offering competitive contracts. Acosta evaluates options based on winning potential.
Final preparations for the race
On the eve of the GP, Acosta participates in technical briefings, refining plans. Ele visualizes race scenarios to anticipate rival moves.
The focus on qualification guarantees favorable starting positions, reducing initial risks. Acosta aims for pole positions on key tracks.
