Pedro Acosta announced on Thursday, 4 July 2026, that he fully supports KTM’s 2027 MotoGP restart, highlighting the signing of Alex Marquez and Fabio di Giannantonio as "two great guys". The Spaniard, who will ride for Ducati next season, made the comments at the Sachsenring before his final race for the Austrian team.
Who did Acosta endorse?
Acosta pointed to Alex Marquez, runner‑up in the 2026 World Championship, as a proven title contender. He added that di Giannantonio, enjoying a strong season with Ducati, brings additional firepower. "They will have a nice opportunity to restart with two great guys," Acosta said, underscoring the depth of KTM’s new roster.
Why does this matter for Acosta?
After debuting in Moto3 with KTM in 2021, Acosta spent six years climbing the ranks to MotoGP. His upcoming switch to Ducati, confirmed late May, marks the end of an era. By praising his former employer’s future plans, Acosta shows respect for the team that shaped his career while signaling confidence in his own next chapter.
What are the stakes for KTM?
KTM’s 2027 line‑up replaces the departing Brad Binder, whose 2027 plans remain unclear. The Austrian factory hopes Marquez’s championship experience and di Giannantonio’s pace will close the gap to the dominant Ducati and Yamaha squads. Acosta believes the duo can deliver the consistency KTM lacked in recent seasons.
What does Acosta aim for in his last KTM race?
The Spaniard, still recovering from carpal‑tunnel surgery after Assen, said his focus is on giving "100 % until the end of the year". He expects a win to come "sooner or later" despite lingering technical issues. A medical clearance on Thursday afternoon will determine if he can compete at the Sachsenring.
How will the move affect the MotoGP grid?
Acosta’s shift to Ducati adds another Spanish talent to Marc Marquez’s team, creating a strong national pairing. Meanwhile, KTM’s refreshed roster could intensify the battle for podiums, especially if Marquez translates his 2026 runner‑up form into race victories. The upcoming German Grand Prix will be the first test of the new line‑up.
What’s next for the former KTM rider?
Acosta will finish the 2026 season with Ducati, aiming to prove his class before the 2027 campaign. His comments suggest a positive relationship with KTM, hinting at possible future collaborations off‑track. As the German GP approaches, all eyes will be on how the Spaniard’s farewell performance stacks up against his new teammates’ debut season.