Alex Marquez is gearing up to join KTM as a factory rider in 2027, and his confidence has been boosted by what Pedro Acosta is already achieving with the team in 2026.
The Spaniard will take over from Acosta at KTM next year, with Acosta moving to Ducati, where he’ll join Alex’s brother, Marc Marquez.
The 2025 runner-up has a strong relationship with his current team, Gresini, but despite riding a factory bike in 2026, he has expressed a desire to become a factory rider. Subsequently, Marquez has signed with KTM from 2027 onwards and he is feeling good about his decision.
P2 at the Thailand GP and P3 at the United States GP put Acosta third in the standings behind the Aprilia riders heading into the one-month break. Meanwhile, Marquez is struggling with the GP26, but he is not thinking about his current manufacturer’s woes.
Alex Marquez focused more on Acosta’s progress than Ducati’s issues
So far in 2026, Alex Marquez hasn’t finished higher than sixth place, finding it tough to get the most out of the GP26. Still, according to journalist Mela Chercoles, Ducati’s problems aren’t what’s weighing on his mind right now.
Speaking through Motociclismo, Chercoles said that Marquez is more focused on Acosta’s performances at KTM. He has shown him that results are possible on the RC16.
“He’s in a situation where he’s going to give it his all right until the end of the season, but I’ll tell you one thing,” said Chercoles.
“Right now, he’s almost happier to see that there’s a chance of achieving good results with the KTM, given Acosta’s performance, than he is worried about Ducati’s slump.
“He’s a professional, isn’t he? But he’s no longer motivated by it, and he’s just happy that KTM is doing well. I’ll remind you that the other day he stood up for KTM for the first time.”
Why is Alex Marquez Leaving Ducati For KTM?
A lot of riders made quick decisions regarding their MotoGP future for 2027. While Ducati have dominated in recent years, Marquez decided to take another path by heading over to Austria. Despite this being seen as an odd choice at first glance.
The reason behind this is due to how overlooked Marquez felt by Ducati during his time there, even though they gave him a factory bike for 2026.
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