Ex-Red Bull Rookie and Ex-Moto3 and Moto2 Champion Pedro Acosta achieved a significant success at the Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg. This achievement is considered a unique example of advancement on the GP rider stage before the Spanish racer progresses to Ducati. Acosta was part of the "Road to MotoGP" program with KTM and Red Bull.
Structure and Technical Approach of the Rookie Program
The Red Bull Rookies Cup represents a format where prototypes are used for GP training. This format has quickly established itself as a reliable supplier for GP winners and world champions. The fundamental success factor of this program is the motorcycle used from the start. At the start of the Cup, the powertrain and chassis were already within the range of a 125cc GP machine. Young riders receive training in both technical skills and GP riding, with the aim to provide a final touch during the ascent. In the Moto3 era, a transition to 250cc four-stroke engines took place starting in 2012. KTM takes the Rookies Cup specification from the GP rider RC4; this specification's performance is one step below that of the Moto3 World Champion machine. Lap times demonstrate this difference; there is a gap of approximately four seconds between the two levels.
Future Moto3 Regulations and Controversies
With the upcoming Moto3 revolution, a new format for the Red Bull Rookies Cup is on the agenda. If the Moto3 World Championship is left open starting from 2028 and Yamaha becomes the sole supplier with a roughly 700cc twin-cylinder engine, the underlying structure will need to be redefined. The lowest level of the "Road to MotoGP" pyramid has been completed. The Moto4 series, which are present worldwide, are expected to compete with 250cc four-stroke engines recognized by Honda.
KTM and Red Bull Partnership
KTM and Red Bull wish to continue the Cup. However, the technical regulation for the future Red Bull Rookies Cup rider is open. KTM Sporting Director Pit Beirer stated that there is no change in the Cup itself: ">The cooperation with Red Bull remains an essential part of the commitment. We also want to continue working with young talent and the best through our established structures to Grand Prix riders."
Pit Beirer expressed his views on the new Moto3: ">Starting from 2028, a larger cup motorcycle is required for the new Moto3. However, we are not convinced by a bike with a 700cc engine. We simply wish to run the youngest riders with 700cc – and the MotoGP elite with 850cc. This is a matter of conviction, not cost."
The race marshal is in close discussion with the MotoGP group and Red Bull, aiming to find the best technical path for the new Moto3. Pit Beirer reiterated his views to SPEEDWEEK.com: "> Personally, I see 500cc with two cylinders as the upper limit."
Philosophical Differences and Potential Conflicts
There are clear philosophical differences between Yamaha and KTM as Moto3 partners. While the Japanese prefer to use a higher-spec engine in a race bike considering costs, the priorities in Austria are different; here, performance comes before costs. KTM complies with the rules of prototype racing. If a new rookie engine is developed, a small, high-performance twin-cylinder motorcycle could emerge that overtakes the Moto3 rider. Discussions on these matters will continue. For "Road to MotoGP," it is aimed to ensure a seamless transition with a new basis for the Red Bull Rookies Cup in 2028.
Figures
- Archive: Ai Ogura took 6th place: raced against Fernandez and Acosta (October 4, 2026)
Read the full story at the original source.
Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
