Pedro Acosta, fresh from his Austrian triumph, seizes a second-fast lap at Motegi, positioning himself for another Japanese Grand Prix victory on the calendar of MotoGP’s most demanding races.
Acosta’s Renewed Motegi Momentum
The 22‑year‑old Spaniard, after ending his grand prix drought with a win in Austria, described Friday’s session as “quite similar to 2024 and much better than in 2025,” underscoring his confidence moving into the main event.
Acosta’s nervous starter in 2024 saw him take two pole positions but finish with a double crash – the sprint and Sunday races. Now, a more mature rider, he posted the second‑fastest time on Friday, hinting at a stronger threat for pole again.
Track Resurfacing and Tyre Tactics Give KTM a Edge
Motegi’s recent full‑track resurfacing, coupled with new tyre compounds, has shifted the dynamic for the KTM RC16. “The biggest difference is the resurfacing and tyre comps,” Acosta explained, noting that his team’s tyre management “has improved compared to last year.”
He compared the current bike to the one he rode a year ago, noting visible gains that align with KTM’s overall season‑long evolution. “If you look at the full season, we’ve handled tyres much better,” he added.
Looking Toward Another Grand Prix Victory
When asked if he could replicate his Austrian win, Acosta responded with quiet assurance: “Close crosses the fingers for me, you know! At the end, we are making good job. It looks like we have found a good base bike for the start of the weekend and then just need to make the details.”
He praised the team’s effort and expressed optimism as he aimed to convert his solid qualifying into race success, positioning himself as a credible contender for multiple wins in the season.
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