KTM’s star rider, 21-year-old Pedro Acosta, is set to start from pole position for only the second time in his MotoGP career. Yesterday, he qualified first but finished second in the sprint behind Alex Marquez (Gresini Ducati) by a mere 0.041 seconds. Acosta had better tire performance in the latter stages of the race, a valuable lesson for today’s race.

Acosta already has a sprint victory under his belt, from Thailand, but he has yet to win a main race. Could today be the day?

The KTM riders have shown their machines are well-suited to the Catalan track, which offers low grip levels this weekend. Acosta is in great form, having managed to fend off pressure from Enea Bastianini for the KTM lead.

The Aprilia riders, especially the factory riders, are having a tough weekend. Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi are starting 9th and 12th, respectively, after recording falls in qualifying. Ducati’s Marc Marquez is a notable absentee from the team.

The Catalan Grand Prix is set to be an exciting race, with Acosta aiming for his first MotoGP victory and Marquez looking to maintain his momentum.