Pedro Acosta: The Promising Rookie MotoGP Desperately Requires
Unpredictable Twists and Turns: Pedro Acosta’s MotoGP Journey
Winter has settled over Liverpool, casting a frosty spell on the city. It seems like an unlikely place for excitement, especially after the conclusion of the 2023 MotoGP season just days ago. However, amidst this cold backdrop, world champions from all corners of the globe have gathered for the FIM Awards.
Pedro Acosta, the reigning Moto2 world champion and rising star in the racing world, is also present at this prestigious event. As I sit down with him in a conference room at Hope Street Hotel, he exudes an infectious enthusiasm while discussing his upcoming debut at Isle of Man TT. Despite being physically tired from a grueling season, Acosta’s spirit remains unwavering.
Just four days prior to our interview, Acosta made his public debut in MotoGP during a test session in Valencia. Representing KTM-backed Tech3 GasGas squad—the team he will join next season—Acosta showcased impressive skills on the RC16 machine. Completing 70 laps and posting lap times only 1.2 seconds off the best pace and 0.4 seconds behind teammate Augusto Fernandez left him feeling accomplished but not yet fully immersed into his new role as a MotoGP rider.
When asked if he felt like a true MotoGP rider now, Acosta modestly replied that it was too early to tell considering it had only been one day of testing. Nevertheless, he expressed immense satisfaction with how things went during that first outing aboard KTM machinery.
“I was incredibly happy with how everything unfolded that day,” shared Acosta earnestly. “The support from my team was remarkable; they’ve gone above and beyond to ensure my comfort and happiness within their ranks.” He further emphasized his appreciation for being paired with Paul Trevathan, a highly experienced technician who previously worked closely with Pol Espargaro during KTM’s early days in MotoGP. Acosta expressed gratitude and confidence in having Trevathan by his side.
It comes as no surprise that Acosta has become the darling of Pierer Mobility Group, the overarching organization encompassing all of KTM’s racing brands. His remarkable achievements—winning his first grand prix from pitlane in Qatar back in 2021, clinching the Moto3 championship that same year, securing multiple race wins and ultimately claiming the Moto2 title in 2023—have catapulted him into one of the hottest prospects on the paddock.
KTM recognizes Acosta’s immense potential and is fully committed to supporting his development. “Whenever I was out on track,” recalls Acosta, “I was surrounded by a swarm of people; it was truly overwhelming!”
Throughout this year, I have heard countless accolades about Acosta from those around him. Aki Ajo, his former Moto2 team boss, described him as an “old-school” rider due to his meticulous approach to racing. Herve Poncharal, Tech3 team principal and now Acosta’s new boss, shared an interesting anecdote about their initial meeting.
“Pedro showed great wisdom right from the start,” revealed Poncharal animatedly. He explained how instead of bombarding them with demands or suggestions for next season’s bike setup during their first encounter before joining Tech3 GasGas squad there were also some mysterious stories emerged . Pedro chose to focus solely on winning the Moto2 title at that time period , leaving any discussions regarding future plans until after accomplishing this goal.”
Keeping himself grounded throughout his career has been essential for Pedro Acosta—and standing at the precipice of embarking on his MotoGP journey, he remains true to his humble origins. While the road ahead is uncertain with many twists and turns yet to come, one thing is for sure: Pedro Acosta’s determination and talent will continue to captivate audiences around the world.