Valentino Rossi is reportedly eyeing Pedro Acosta as a potential signing for his VR46 MotoGP team in an attempt to counter Marc Marquez’s dominance. Factory KTM rider Acosta has been strongly linked with a 2026 switch to VR46, with speculation in Italy intensifying ahead of the Americas Grand Prix.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Rossi views Acosta as “the real anti-Marquez” and “the only one able to stop Marc.” With Marquez currently dominating the 2025 season aboard his factory Ducati, he is on track to match Rossi’s nine world championships this year and could surpass the Italian legend in 2026.
A move to VR46 would place Acosta on Ducati’s competitive machinery, potentially giving him the tools to challenge Marquez head-on. As Ducati’s premier satellite team, VR46 has access to at least one factory-spec bike, which Fabio di Giannantonio currently rides. Reports suggest VR46 would be ready “cheque in hand” to secure Acosta’s services. However, no official negotiations have taken place yet.
Rossi and Acosta share a history, with the young Spaniard having previously visited Rossi’s Tavullia ranch to compete in the 100km of Champions event.
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds KTM’s future. The manufacturer’s financial struggles and lack of competitiveness have led to speculation that its other riders—Brad Binder, Maverick Viñales, and Enea Bastianini—are seeking moves elsewhere for 2026. Gazzetta claims that Acosta is the only KTM rider guaranteed to find a new home if he chooses to leave, thanks to his talent and market value.
Despite KTM’s efforts to retain Acosta with “contractual updates and reassuring promises,” the Spaniard remains under contract until at least the end of 2026. His manager, Albert Valera, has denied that they are actively seeking an exit, while KTM motorsport boss Pit Beirer insists that “the ball is in our court” but acknowledges the need to offer Acosta “more than what he currently has.”
KTM has struggled in the 2025 season, with their highest-placed rider, Binder, sitting in seventh overall. The team’s financial restructuring process is underway, with hopes for a stronger future, but the prospect of losing Acosta to a rival team remains a major concern.
