Pedro Acosta, the young KTM rider, reflected on a narrow loss in the MotoGP Portuguese Grand Prix sprint. Competing against Alex Marquez of Gresini Racing, Acosta missed victory by just 0.120 seconds at the Portimao circuit. This sprint race marked a significant moment in Acosta’s season as he secured his first front row start in 2025, qualifying second on the grid.
Acosta’s Sprint Race Performance
During the 12-lap sprint, Acosta showcased his skills but encountered limitations with his KTM bike. He acknowledged that the bike’s performance was not competitive enough in the critical final corner compared to Marquez’s Ducati. “It was maybe the most exciting sprint race in the whole season for the fans,” Acosta commented. He expressed his determination, saying, “I gave everything I had in my hands.”
Key Highlights from the Race
- Acosta finished just 0.120 seconds behind Alex Marquez.
- This race was Acosta’s first front-row start of the 2025 season.
- The sprint covered a distance of 12 laps at Portimao.
- Acosta performed well except in the last corner, where he struggled against the Ducati’s speed.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the narrow miss, Acosta remains optimistic about future races. He stated, “Let’s try again tomorrow,” highlighting his readiness to improve. The team has made strides to enhance bike performance, and Acosta appreciates their efforts. He noted, “We have found some consistency on the podium or close to the podium.”
Tire Considerations for the Upcoming Race
Looking ahead to the main event, tire wear has been a concern for the KTM team throughout the season. Acosta acknowledged this issue, noting that it could affect all competitors due to limited laps on the rear tire options. “I think it will be a question mark for everyone, because no one has done a lot of laps on the rear tyres,” he said.
As Acosta prepares for the next challenge in the MotoGP series, he remains committed to refining his skills and maximizing his bike’s potential. His focus on continuous improvement is evident as he aims for a podium finish in future races.
