Marco Bezzecchi
Pedro Acosta has had a disappointing start to the 2025 MotoGP season. It has prompted speculation that he could leave KTM before his contract expires.
The Spaniard moved up to the factory KTM team from satellite outfit Tech3 after a hugely impressive rookie season last year. He finished sixth in the standings with five podiums, two points behind factory rider and now teammate Brad Binder.
After three rounds in 2024, Acosta had been on the podium twice – he would have hoped to produce even stronger results at KTM. However, the Spaniard has endured a miserable start to life at the factory team.
At Tech3, the 20-year-old was not afraid to push the limits and make mistakes. However, in 2025, these errors are more common than ever as Acosta has already suffered two crashes.
He threw away a top result in Buriram and did it again at the Grand Prix of the Americas after qualifying on the second row. Acosta is so frustrated at KTM – to the point where he does not seem to care about crashing – as he struggles to get used to the RC16.
The bike’s vibration issue is still prominent in 2025, with the Spaniard only scoring 16 points thus far. His situation has led to rumours that Acosta could be looking for a way out of KTM, with VR46 being touted as an option.
Pedro Acosta says he has a ‘good’ relationship with Valentino Rossi amid VR46 rumours
The satellite Ducati team have been one MotoGP team mentioned in the running to sign Acosta. Valentino Rossi is said to be a keen admirer of the Spaniard.
VR46 are ready to pounce for Acosta as he becomes more dissatisfied at KTM with every race. Rossi will certainly be monitoring his situation as the season unfolds.
Acosta has a deal with KTM until 2026, but speculation has suggested he could break his contract early. Several teams are interested, but VR46 may have the upper hand with the Spaniard’s ties to Rossi.
Speaking with Speedweek, Acosta described his relationship with the seven-time MotoGP champion as ‘good’ and ‘open.’ KTM will be mortified as they risk losing their star rider due to their poor situation.
Our relationship has always been okay,” said Acosta. “My first season in the championship was his last; I race at his ranch every year. It’s fun; we have a good, open relationship.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Pedro Acosta from net worth to girlfriend
What are the chances that Pedro Acosta joins VR46 in 2026?
Acosta has stated he wants to see out his contract at KTM, having raced with the team in some capacity since he was 14. However, after such a disappointing start to 2025 and with his frustrations obvious, he may be considering his options.
Honda have also been linked with the 20-year-old, but VR46 appear to be the favourites. Acosta may have signed a ‘pre-agreement’ to leave KTM already.
Franco Morbidelli is out of contract at the end of the season and will likely be the rider Acosta replaces if he joins Rossi’s outfit. Fabio Di Giannantonio has a factory Ducati contract alongside Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia.
However, Morbidelli has been described as the Lance Stroll of MotoGP due to his close relationship with Rossi. It is likely the Italian will stay at VR46, leaving Acosta’s future up in the air.
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