Negotiations between Pedro Acosta and the VR46 Racing Team for a potential move in the 2026 MotoGP season have fallen through, meaning the Spanish rider will remain with KTM for the second year of his factory contract. However, Acosta is expected to be a significant figure in the 2027 rider market when MotoGP transitions to the new 850cc era.
KTM has expressed plans to be the first manufacturer to conduct track testing on an 850cc bike, but uncertainties linger over the RC16 project due to the company’s recent change in ownership and rumored budget cuts following last winter’s financial crisis. After a challenging start, Acosta and KTM rebounded to achieve 12 podium finishes and secure fourth place in the World Championship, though KTM has not secured a MotoGP victory since 2022.
While VR46 also went winless this season, Ducati’s Marc Marquez dominated the championship, and Acosta’s former Moto2 competitor, Fermin Aldeguer, secured his maiden win in his rookie year with Gresini. VR46 team manager Pablo Nieto admitted they would welcome Acosta, expressing respect for his contract with KTM but leaving the door open for future possibilities. Alongside Acosta staying put, VR46 has re-signed Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Di Giannantonio for 2026, though their contracts also expire at the end of next season.
Recently, Acosta joined five other current MotoGP riders at the Champions Dirt Track 100km event organized by VR46 team owner Valentino Rossi at the Moto Ranch in Tavullia.
Fan Take: This update is a major talking point for racing fans as it highlights the brewing competition and strategic shifts in the upcoming 850cc era, with Acosta poised as a key player. The decisions made now by teams like KTM and VR46 could reshape the rider landscape and competitive dynamics, setting the stage for thrilling MotoGP seasons ahead.
