Pedro Acosta Warns MotoGP Calendar Could Shorten Rider Careers

Pedro Acosta has warned that the current MotoGP format and calendar are placing unsustainable pressure on riders, which he believes will ultimately result in shorter professional careers.

Speaking during a media briefing on April 13, 2026, ahead of the United States Grand Prix, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider expressed concern over the cumulative effects of the championship’s intensive schedule.

Acosta, who is 21 years old with two seasons of MotoGP experience, suggested that incorporating more two-week intervals between races would be a beneficial change for the athletes.

The Spanish rider highlighted the demands of the 22-race calendar, noting that the current structure leaves little room for riders to develop their pace without the pressure of a high-stakes session.

I mean, [there is no] time on the weekend when you can say, ‘OK, I will go out on track, I will take my pace, step by step, I will just ride’. I mean, every day you have an important session, 22 times per year.

Pedro Acosta

Acosta explained that the necessity of performing in critical sessions every day—including Friday practice, qualifying, the sprint race and the main event—creates a level of stress that may eventually exceed the limits of what riders can bear.

Impact of the Sprint Format and Injury Risks

While Acosta believes the introduction of the sprint race was a good idea, he cautioned that the increased frequency of high-risk sessions elevates the probability of injuries.

He noted that as the risks inherent in the format increase, the likelihood of riders suffering injuries also rises, further threatening the longevity of their careers.

The rider also expressed support for reducing the duration of qualifying assignments as a means of managing the intensity of the race weekends.

Career Trajectory and Future Outlook

The discussion regarding rider longevity comes as Acosta navigates a significant transition in his own career. Despite his current role with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, reports indicate that Ducati executives signed Acosta for the 2027 MotoGP season as part of a damage-prevention strategy.

This move occurs amid a broader period of instability in the rider market, often referred to as the silly season, as the sport prepares for new regulations in 2027. On January 27, 2026, Acosta noted that many riders might switch teams as the 2027 era approaches, stating that those who are not happy in their current positions will likely move on.

Acosta’s manager, Albert Valera, previously indicated in January 2026 that securing a factory seat was the priority for the rider, with options including Ducati or other factory teams.

Upcoming Schedule

Following the United States Grand Prix, the championship will transition to Europe. Due to the rescheduling of the Qatar Grand Prix, the next event on the calendar is the Spanish Grand Prix, which is scheduled to take place from April 24 to April 26, 2026.