Pedro Acosta declared that Red Bull KTM’s machinery was anorganically positioned in the bottom tier of practice times at MotorLand Aragon, citing a substantial gap to the Aprilia of Marco Bezzecchi.
KTM struggles at Aragon
In Friday’s final session Acosta finished eighth, more than six tenths slower than the Aprilia that set the fastest lap, with teammate Enea Bastianini trailing at seventeen‑seventh. The rider described a lack of confidence in the front end of the scooter, insisting that resolving that issue is crucial for a competitive drive.
He noted that last season’s hard‑front‑tyre compound had given him additional support; the current lack of that same compound creates a “very difficult” comparison and improvement pathway.
Front‑end issues flagged by Acosta
Acosta pointed out that the KTM team needs to address front‑end problems as the only viable advantage. He emphasized that the bike’s front performance directly influences his capacity to challenge the top Yamaha and Ducati Garrouts.
Commenting on the overall field, he highlighted that Ducati currently occupies five positions in the top ten, while Aprilia holds three.
Drivers ahead in practice
Marc Marquez entered the weekend as the strongest contender, yet Marco Bezzecchi eclipsed him to finish the day’s fastest lap. Acosta wondered whether the champion was conserving energy, especially after a teammate reported a weaker right arm before the Santa‑Cruz Sunday race.
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