Cal Crutchlow says the true measure of Pedro Acosta’s level is still unknown, because the young rider has yet to be tested against a genuinely formidable teammate. The British veteran praised Acosta’s fearless approach and impressive results.

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Acosta currently ranks fourth in the MotoGP World Championship with 263 points. That is more than the combined total of KTM factory partner Brad Binder and the Tech3 riders Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales, who together have 242 points.

Acosta has secured all six of KTM’s Grand Prix podiums this season and boasts a flawless 40-0 qualifying record over Binder since last year’s start. His rookie campaign also featured a clean sweep over Augusto Fernandez at Tech3.

Crutchlow: “We don’t know the full level of him”

Speaking on Manuel Pecino’s YouTube channel, Crutchlow lauded Acosta’s on-track aggression and candid personality. He also highlighted the absence of a “really strong teammate” in the Spaniard’s career so far.

“He beats his teammates every week, all the KTMs. He’s always the first KTM, so what he’s doing is very, very incredible, honestly,” Crutchlow said. “But we don’t know the full level of him. Obviously, he’s an amazing talent, but I also like him because there is no b——- with him. He’s a character, he enjoys being here, he enjoys his racing, he’s fun. This is what MotoGP needs, what the sport needs, what the manufacturer needs.”

Ducati move and Marquez test

Crutchlow expects Acosta’s move to Ducati next year, where he will join seven-time premier-class champion Marc Marquez, to finally reveal the full extent of his capabilities. “I think he ticks all the boxes to be great, let’s say. I look forward to also seeing this. We’re going to see it next year,” Crutchlow added.

Brad Binder, a two-time MotoGP race winner, has struggled to maintain his peak form alongside Acosta’s rise. Enea Bastianini’s seven premier-class victories have not translated into consistent dominance on the RC16 machine.

Maverick Vinales, once seen as Acosta’s most credible KTM rival, has been hampered by injuries throughout his tenure.

Marc Marquez himself has repeatedly hailed Acosta as the “future of MotoGP,” acknowledging the young rider’s potential to push even the seasoned champion to his limits. This looming rivalry at Ducati could mark a pivotal chapter in Acosta’s career, possibly challenging the established hierarchy and reshaping the sport’s competitive landscape.

For now, Acosta’s ceiling remains an enigma, but the MotoGP paddock is braced for a defining test when he lines up against Marquez next season.