Acosta Urges MotoGP to Reconsider Start Device Ban

Pedro Acosta believes MotoGP should reconsider its ban on front start devices after arguing that starts without the system may now be more dangerous following the 2026 Assen MotoGP Sprint.

The ban came into effect at the Dutch MotoGP after riders trialled practice starts without the front start device during the Czech MotoGP at Brno. The move was introduced as a safety measure aimed at reducing first-corner risks after several recent high-profile incidents.

The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider was among those who had raised concerns about increased wheelies off the line and the risk of front-wheel locking when riders eventually reached the first braking zone.

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"I think now it's even more dangerous than before, because it's quite easy to make wheelies, it's quite easy to remain, like, stopped in the middle of the track."

"They should think about going without, or come back to introduce the front device, because I think it's even worse than before."

Acosta's view contrasted with Fabio Quartararo, who felt it was acceptable to start without the front devices after the Assen Sprint. Meanwhile, Marco Bezzecchi preferred to wait until after the main race before making a full judgement.

"The start was normal, but still not enough time to judge if it's better or not. In terms of feeling, it was not too bad but it's true that it's very hard to say a clear comment. I want to wait tomorrow."

The differing rider views underline that MotoGP's technical decision may still require further evaluation, especially with the Assen Grand Prix set to provide a second competitive race start under the new restriction.