Pedro Acosta secured a mature third-place finish for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing at the Misano circuit following a radical overnight overhaul of his struggling RC16.
The Spanish rider endured a frustrating Saturday sprint during the San Marino Grand Prix, slipping to sixth while battling severe front-end braking issues. His visible anger prompted an immediate response from the KTM garage.
Speaking to Motorsport.com, Acosta confirmed his mechanics “completely changed the bike” ahead of the main event.
This altered setup allowed a rapid launch from ninth on the grid. He quickly navigated the early traffic, staying well clear of a costly Marco Bezzecchi crash. Acosta soon emerged as a credible threat to Alex Marquez and race leader Marc Marquez.
Strategic Restraint Under Pressure
Despite closing the gap late in the race, a sudden front-wheel lock at Turn 7 convinced the rookie to abandon his pursuit. He told Crash.net the late scare meant it was “time to chill a bit” rather than risk losing his podium.
Securing guaranteed points showed a maturity that echoed standout junior performances elsewhere, such as Pedro Clerot taking a flawless maiden Madrid win. Acosta comfortably held off his pursuers to cross the line in third.
The KTM rider now sits fifth in the MotoGP standings as the paddock prepares for the next round.
