KTM have already decided the MotoGP rider who could replace Pedro Acosta amid Ducati links

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KTM have some big decisions to make in the coming months as they begin to put a plan together for the 2027 MotoGP regulations.

It seems almost certain that they will lose Pedro Acosta to a rival, most likely a team running Ducati bikes, as he chases the opportunity to compete for titles.

That could leave a big hole in the KTM programme that will need to be filled, and there’s no obvious young talent that they can promote in his place yet.

As a result, they might have to explore the MotoGP rider market for some options. It’s a long shot, but they could swoop for someone like Francesco Bagnaia or Fabio Quartararo.

Luigi Dall’Igna’s dream signing is Acosta, and he is an admirer of the Spaniard, whom he would love to pair with Marc Marquez.

Ducati are now matching the ‘very keen’ Acosta, and it seems as though he’s their number one target if they do decide to replace Bagnaia over the next few months.

READ MORE: KTM crew chief claims ‘everyone’ is wrong about one Pedro Acosta weakness

KTM have already decided that Maverick Vinales will replace Pedro Acosta for 2027

The amount of speculation about a rider who hasn’t won his first race in the premier class may serve as a surprise to some.

Marquez has changed his mind about Acosta’s 2026 chances and no longer believes that it’s possible for him to win the title this year. That already felt quite obvious, though.

It’s only a matter of time before he frequents the top step of the podium, though, and whether or not that happens at KTM won’t bother him too much.

If he confirms his departure, presumably before the summer, KTM have already decided who will take his spot at the factory team.

According to Diario AS, Maverick Vinales will receive a promotion from Tech3 to fill his boots, following some impressive performances in 2025 before getting injured.

He’s an experienced and savvy option, providing them with a level head at a time when the new regulations are bound to be a little confusing.

READ MORE: Pedro Acosta’s manager just all but confirmed that he plans to leave KTM

Who else might KTM sign for the 2027 MotoGP season?

Vinales isn’t the only potential incoming at KTM either, with Brad Binder under pressure to save his ride this year.

He has been a little off the boil for a while now, and hopes that Toprak Razgatlioglu’s ex-crew chief, Phil Marron, can help him get back on track.

If not, he could find himself off the grid or at Tech3 for 2027, leaving an opening alongside Vinales that could be snapped up by anyone.

There are a few tempting rookie riders in Moto2, but some extra experience alongside Vinales wouldn’t hurt. They don’t need a superstar, but would someone like Luca Marini or Joan Mir be a wise move?