Once is not customary, the section “ Let's talk MotoGP " turns into " Let's talk Moto2 ”, or more broadly, “ Let's talk about the future ". Today, we look at a talent, a crack, a great despite his young age: Pedro Acosta. Together, we will study all the possibilities of signatures, with the strong and weak points of each option. A fun article, with specific elements to watch out for. As usual, you are invited to give your opinion in comments.
I) Small details
Before we begin, let's clarify the situation: we have no more information than the pilot implied last week. The Spaniard declared that “the priority was KTM”. So, we will base our analysis on this, but that does not mean that we exclude other avenues.
Secondly, we don't really take into account the contractual aspect of things.. Many riders are signed until 2024, but we start from the principle that no paper is untearable and the past has proven this to us, in MotoGP as in other motor sports. In any case, we are studying the question here in absolute terms, and these remain, in the end, suppositions.
At Le Mans, rewatch his fall and above all, the way he got up to get his machine. A fighting spirit worthy of the greatest. Photo: Red Bull KTM Ajo
Third, let's remember who this driver is and why we talk about him so much if you don't follow the other categories. From his first year in the Moto3 world championship, he imposed himself under the noses of the regulars at Red Bull KTM Ajo. This earned him a move to Moto2, still in the Aki Ajo structure, and there again, he showed himself to be quick from his first laps. With three victories, two podiums and a pole, Pedro finished the year in 5th position. In 2023, a thunderous start with victories in Portugal and the USA places him in an ideal position in the championship. Current second, 25 points behind Tony Arbolino, he will try to get his second world crown in only his 19th year. You will have understood, the expression “generational talent” is not too much for Pedro Acosta.
II) The options
1. A new year of Moto2
Most : After all, the market is still clogged in MotoGP. Pedro Acosta is – very – young, he has time. Not rushing talent is also a good way to arrive later in an established MotoGP team, and above all, with more experience. Take the example of Jorge LorenzoOr
Johann zarco, who put their title back on the line before arriving in the premier category with good handlebars. In addition, we imagine that his priority remains the Moto2 2023 coronation but the latter is far from being acquired in view of the competition.
The lessers : Obviously, given the nugget,
we would like to see him in MotoGP, where the best riders are. Doing an extra year also represents a risk, that of getting injured without even having tasted the dream, or more simply, losing performance and attracting the interest of fewer well-placed teams, which has already happened in the past. Precocious, his age is a strength and we should not “waste” his best years to win a title that is ultimately not so decisive (Joan mir, Maverick Vinales ou Jorge Martín did not wait for it).
2.Honda Repsol
Most : Clearly, one cannot help but find similarities with Marc Márquez. Both are Spanish, always smiling, fast, explosive, strong in small categories and have this image of young geniuses. Following in the footsteps of the eight-time world champion wouldn't be a bad idea. Honda Repsol needs to rebuild, and the team still benefits from this characteristic aura. Why not bring in Pedro Acosta to start fresh? After all, this is the greatest team in the history of our sport. Refusing factory Honda in Grands Prix is very difficult.
The lessers : The bike is clearly not up to standard and if he comes, Pedro already knows that the first two years (or at least, the first) will be tortuous. In addition, be careful not to be swallowed up by Marc Márquez, still fast despite his injuries. Obviously, the performance of the machine will play a role in its assessment and Honda is far from being in pole position in this area, It is the least we can say.
Photo: Red Bull KTM Ajo
3.KTM
Most : We separate the factory team
KTM de GASGAS. Ultimately, the move to the Austrians is the most logical: Pedro Acosta knows the house well, and the Mattighofen firm is in his favor for the moment. The relationship is healthy and established, it is already a great advantage compared to other teams. The RC16 is on the upward slope, which is still very good news.
The lessers :
Brad Binder is unbeatable, because he too is a generational talent. The only fuse is Jack Miller, but it is clear that
despite recurring errors and a questionable approach, he's doing the job at the start of the year. Will we take the risk of parting with him to bring Pedro Acosta up? This seems risky, especially if the Australian progresses further and helps KTM win a constructor or teams title.
4. GASGAS
Most : Tech3 is an institution which has developed many young people, and often with success. The machine is no less efficient and the place held by Pol Espargaro far from being irrevocable, even if the latter has excellent relations with KTM.
Clearly, this is the most likely path.
The lessers : Pedro Acosta is such a talent that it would almost be a shame to see him on a GASGAS, without disrespect to Hervé Poncharal and his teams. Understand: It's as if Jorge Lorenzo or Dani Pedrosa, monsters in the making, signed with Team Roberts and Konica Minolta Honda back in the day. As with these legends, you must unlock a place on an official team. In fact, GASGAS remains a “transition”, “training” team while Pedro Acosta, like Marc Márquez before him, is destined to shine upon his arrival.
Concentrate. Photo: Red Bull KTM Ajo.
5. Yamaha and Ducati
We group the two together so as not to make it too long, but the trails are also worth exploring.
Most : Ducati and Yamaha are teams that attract, despite everything. The Ducati is the best machine on the field, and Yamaha enjoys a history that could legitimize such a transfer.
The lessers : The roads are blocked,
except in Morbidelli's place under Iwata's awning. Ducati would be right to bet on Bagnaia and Bagnaia only, unless find him a place at Pramac with a montage involving Johann Zarco and the exit of Fabio Di Giannantonio, but ultimately, it would only be a second additional knife despite the intrinsic performance of the machine. This also implies an upheaval within the Ducati hierarchy. This option is not uninteresting, however.. Then
Yamaha shows nothing that could sign Pedro Acosta. The argument from the past is valid, but the lack of desire coupled with the loss of motivation of the superstar
fabio quartararo at the start of the season is not reassuring.
What do you think he will do? Tell us in the comments!
Cover photo: Red Bull KTM Ajo
