Pedro Acosta has taken the MotoGP world by storm in his first three races, delivering performances that have surpassed even the lofty expectations set for him.
The 19-year-old Spaniard has already secured two podiums, led laps, and battled toe-to-toe with some of the sport’s most celebrated champions, including Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia.
Acosta’s achievements have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest debutants in MotoGP history, including Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa, Casey Stoner, and Jorge Lorenzo.
How do Acosta’s first three races stack up against these legendary riders?
Marc Marquez (2013): 3rd (Qatar), 1st (Austin), 2nd (Spain)
Dani Pedrosa (2006): 2nd (Spain), 6th (Qatar), 14th (Turkey)
Casey Stoner (2006): 6th (Spain), 5th (Qatar), 2nd (Turkey)
Jorge Lorenzo (2008): 2nd (Qatar), 3rd (Spain), 1st (Portugal)
Acosta’s record of 9th (Qatar), 3rd (Portugal), 2nd (Austin) is certainly comparable to these riders, particularly considering that he is riding for the Tech3 GasGas team, which finished 11th out of 11 teams last year.
Acosta’s rapid rise has earned him comparisons to Marc Marquez, who is the only rookie to win the premier-class title in his first attempt in 2013. Marquez’s dominance in his early races, including a victory in Austin and a podium in Qatar, set the stage for his historic championship victory.
If Acosta continues to perform at this level, it would not be surprising to see him challenge for MotoGP titles in the near future, solidifying his place among the greatest riders in the sport’s history.
