Pedro Acosta’s incredible performances in the early stages of the 2024 MotoGP season are adding a new perspective to a grand prix that he had no involvement in. In September 2023, Dani Pedrosa, who will be turning 38 later that month, participates in his second wildcard appearance of the season at Misano. He had already shown strength at Jerez, his first race of the season, but he performs even better at Misano. He qualifies as the top KTM, finishes the sprint as the top KTM, and ends the grand prix as the top KTM.
Despite approaching his 40s, Pedrosa is able to keep up with the works KTMs, even without consistent race practice. This raises the question of whether the KTM RC16 is better than its riders are making it seem. Is there untapped potential that can be extracted from the bike? This question becomes even more prominent after the Portimao round of the season when Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro comments on the strength of the KTM.
Acosta has been a formidable opponent for his teammates throughout the pre-season and the early races of the season. He poses a significant challenge for Binder, who has had a difficult weekend at COTA. Despite facing several setbacks, including a compromised set-up and a shunt in Q1, Binder manages to salvage a ninth-place finish. However, Acosta’s performance highlights the gap between them.
Acosta consistently outperforms Binder in every session and makes the right tire choice for the race. Binder acknowledges that Acosta’s performance has been exceptional and questions whether he would have been able to challenge him even in a “normal” weekend. Binder’s contract provides some security, but if he continues to struggle against Acosta, it could have long-term implications for his reputation as the top RC16 rider.
Binder’s next opportunity to prove himself will be at Jerez, where he will have to compete not only against Acosta but also against Pedrosa, who will be making another wildcard appearance. It is crucial for Binder to assert himself within the KTM/Gas Gas structure and regain his position as the benchmark RC16 rider.