KTM and Pedro Acosta appear to be moving toward a difficult separation, even though their story together was once full of hope. Acosta grew up inside KTM’s academy system, won the Moto3 title in 2021 and the Moto2 title in 2023, and arrived in MotoGP as the rider the factory wished to build its future around. His contract, like many others in the paddock, ends next year.

Throughout the season, Acosta has been open about his frustration with the RC16. He has said the bike does not always allow him to show his full speed, especially against Ducati, which currently sets the standard in MotoGP. He wants a machine that can fight for wins every weekend, not just on certain tracks.

KTM’s problems are not only technical. The company has gone through strong financial pressure in recent years. Ownership has changed and long-time leaders have stepped aside. With a new direction being planned and cost-cutting discussions happening, it is unclear how much support the MotoGP project will receive in the future.

For young riders like Acosta, who is already seen as a future champion, this uncertainty is a serious concern. Earlier in the year he seemed angry and ready to leave. But when KTM made it clear he must complete his contract, he changed his approach and focused on riding at his best.

That decision paid off. Acosta scored several points, avoided mistakes and finished the year as one of the strongest riders on the grid. He ended well ahead of his factory team-mate, proving his talent is not in doubt. Teams across the paddock have noticed that he has continued to shine even without the best bike.

KTM has tried to show him great respect and affection. Their racing bosses have spoken publicly about how much they want him to stay. They know that losing him would be a huge blow to their long-term plans.

However, Acosta is at this point in his career where he must think of championships. Ducati is believed to be his first choice if a seat becomes free. His future may depend on what the top riders at Ducati decide to do next.

Right now, the relationship between Acosta and KTM feels like one where both sides are trying to stay together, but both know a breakup may be coming. If they do split, it will likely be KTM who would feel the pain the most, because they helped build the star that everyone else now wants.