Pedro Acosta’s first MotoGP victory has not changed his view of KTM’s championship prospects. He believes the manufacturer is still some way short in outright speed of what would be needed for a genuine title challenge, even though the points deficit is less daunting. After the Austrian Grand Prix, Acosta is 72 points behind Jorge Martin and continues to regard third in the championship as his own realistic objective.

The Austrian success came 56 races into Acosta’s MotoGP career and was his first victory since the 2023 Moto2 season. Marc Marquez had called him a title threat, but Acosta is keeping his expectations measured. His immediate priorities are to stay competitive, avoid mistakes and establish KTM’s position once the championship returns to Europe.

Motegi suits Acosta, but it also carries unfinished business

Motegi’s stop-and-go character is expected to work in Acosta’s favour, much as it did in Austria. His record at the Japanese circuit nevertheless leaves a point to prove. He took pole position there in 2024, then crashed out of both races while in contention for victory. Last season, he also finished outside the points at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Acosta is not treating a second MotoGP win as an expectation. He anticipates strong performances from Martin and Marquez, while pointing to Aprilia’s current speed and Bagnaia’s usual strength at the Asian rounds. The plan for Motegi and the races that follow is to limit mistakes, remain competitive and keep the push for third place alive, rather than force another victory. Acosta’s focus is therefore on building a stronger championship position over the Asian stretch and reassessing the situation in Europe.