MotoGP rookie Pedro Acosta has outlined that fighting for the 2024 title is “not the priority” after claiming his second podium of 2024 at the Americas Grand Prix.
Acosta has exceeded expectations upon his move to the top flight this term, becoming the youngest rider to log back-to-back podium finishes in the premier class.
The Spaniard’s third place in Portimao and his second place at the Circuit of the Americas have elevated him up to fourth place as the lead KTM rider in the standings.
Acosta lies 26 points behind championship leader Jorge Martin and his strong showings have even led to suggestions that he could replicate Marc Marquez in 2013.
But despite being in the hunt at this stage, the 19-year-old is focusing on the next round and won’t allow himself to become warped around the building expectations.
He told Autosport: “Let’s start to think [about the next round] in Jerez and not about the championship. All the people talking around, it’s only pressure.
“We are in a sweet moment with the bike, with the team, with Pierer Mobility.
“Let’s enjoy this moment and close the finger for sure if we can fight for the championship. It’s a long season, but it’s not the priority now.”
The Americas GP gave Acosta a flavour of what it is like to lead a MotoGP for the first time as he took the lead following a crash from Marquez ahead of him on Lap 11.
Maverick Vinales would overtake the rookie two laps later and storm to a remarkable comeback win, with Acosta admitting he was unable to live with his compatriot.
“No one in this world can catch him today,” he said. “You only have to see the pace. Also, when I see him from [Saturday], the pace that he had in the sprint, [he] was on another world.
“It was difficult. I tried, when [he] passed me I tried to block him. But he was really good.
“Also, I was talking with him and when he passed me I was trying to brake harder into Turn 12 and it was impossible. Today was not my day.”
