Joan Mir, the 2020 MotoGP World Champion, has praised Pedro Acosta’s impressive progress in the premier class, asserting that it is “only a matter of time” before the young Spaniard secures his first victory.
Acosta, who joined GASGAS Tech3 for his rookie MotoGP season, has quickly made a name for himself with standout performances, including a podium finish in just his second race and a near-victory in Austin. Despite not clinching a win in 2023, Acosta demonstrated immense potential, especially after leading in the early stages of multiple races.
The 19-year-old’s quest to break Marc Marquez’s record as the youngest MotoGP race winner—set in 2013 when Marquez won his first race at 20 years and 63 days—was a close but elusive target for Acosta. Despite not achieving the milestone before or after the German Grand Prix in July, his impressive consistency, including five podium finishes, placed him among the top riders of the season.
Joan Mir, speaking to Crash.net, reflected on Acosta’s 2023 campaign and expressed his belief that a victory is inevitable. “Pedro is doing a great job,” said Mir. “It’s incredibly challenging to stay competitive across all tracks, but Pedro has shown remarkable speed at every circuit, which is fantastic.”
Mir acknowledged that Ducati’s performance dominance last season likely hindered Acosta’s chances of securing a win, but remained confident in the young rider’s ability. “The Ducatis are much more ahead in terms of performance, and that for sure didn’t help him get his first victory,” Mir noted. “But it will come. He’s learning a lot, and he’s incredibly fast.”
Mir also stated that while it wasn’t surprising Acosta hadn’t won yet, he wouldn’t have been surprised if Acosta had secured a win, emphasizing the 19-year-old’s quality and talent. “It’s a matter of time,” Mir concluded.
Mir’s own path to a MotoGP victory came in his second season, a feat he achieved on his way to winning the world title. With his endorsement, Acosta’s first victory seems just around the corner as he continues to develop into one of the sport’s most promising talents.
