Kevin Schwantz advises Pedro Acosta to be 'brave enough' to leave KTM

Kevin Schwantz, 500 1993cc World Champion, recently shared his thoughts on the promising career of rising star Pedro Acosta. MotoGP. Invited to commentate on the Grand Prix of the Americas on the official MotoGP channel, the American discussed several topics, including the future of the Spaniard, who is starting his second season in the premier class.

Pedro Acosta had an impressive debut in MotoGP, securing his first podium after just two races and making numerous appearances on the bike during his first year, including a pole position at Motegi (Japan). However, things have looked complicated since KTM's struggles. After three race weekends, Pedro Acosta is only thirteenth in the championship with a total of 16 points.

Kevin Schwantz nevertheless sees immense potential in him and would advise the Spaniard to try to change machines if an opportunity arises. He has a great career ahead of him. He needs to take his time and learn everything he can about the KTM. But if the opportunity arises to ride one of the best bikes, I think at his age he should seize it."

This advice doesn't come from just anyone. Pedro Acosta owes his exceptional career to the American star. A huge motorcycle enthusiast and unconditional fan of Kevin Schwantz, his father got him into motorcycling after following the exploits of the number 34. Pedro Acosta would wear this number for a long time before changing it, seeing that an opportunity to join the world championship presented itself to him.

Leaving the ship, the best option for Pedro Acosta?

During the 2024 GP of the Americas, which saw the KTM rider's first career top-3 finish, his father also had the opportunity to meet his lifelong idol.

This advice nevertheless takes on a special dimension when we know Kevin Schwantz's loyalty to Suzuki throughout his career.

« Being the guy who was never brave enough to jump ship, I would recommend today to do so, He continues. I think as young as Pedro is, and I know KTM has given him his chance so far, but if he feels things are not going in the right direction… If an opportunity to go to a team that is playing a leading role arises, he should take it. There is no guarantee that this opportunity will come again."

It remains to be seen what options Pedro Acosta has in the future, as the situation at each factory team does not offer him much choice at the moment.

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