Pedro Acosta is finally an official MotoGP winner. After two and a half years of near-misses and 15 podium finishes without a win, the Spanish rider broke his premier-class drought in style at KTM's home race, the Red Bull Ring.
Starting from third, Acosta dropped to fifth at the start but quickly carved his way forward to take the lead from Jorge Martin on lap 9 of 28. This time there was no mistake: Acosta held off Martin to secure his first-ever MotoGP victory.
“I have no words, this is a dream come true,” said Acosta. “The team has worked so hard, and finally we did it. This is for everyone at KTM.”
Jorge Martin had to settle for second after leading early on. He came under late pressure from Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi, who finished third. Ai Ogura, returning from injury, impressed with fourth for Trackhouse Aprilia.
Meanwhile, Marc Marquez struggled. The reigning champion lost the title lead after finishing runner-up in the Sprint, and in the main race he lacked the pace to challenge the Aprilias and Acosta. Marquez had to fight hard just to finish as the top Ducati, re-passing Fermin Aldeguer for fifth in the closing stages.
Pecco Bagnaia, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Johann Zarco completed the top ten. All riders chose medium compound tyres, front and rear.
An 850cc/Pirelli test takes place at the Red Bull Ring on Monday. The Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi, the first of the flyaway rounds, then takes place from 2-4 October.
Read Also
Jorge Martin battles through a hand injury at the 2026 Qatar GP. Can he hold off Marc Marquez to keep his title hopes alive?
Check the full MotoGP Qatar 2026 schedule at Lusail Circuit. View the Sprint Race and Grand Prix broadcast times in Western Indonesian Time (WIB).
The 2026 Qatar GP is under new emergency protocols. Discover the details of the security instructions at the Lusail paddock and their impact on MotoGP teams.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!