{
  "id": 17371247,
  "title": "'I had nothing to lose': Acosta explains gamble that paid off in Sepang",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/31/i-had-nothing-to-lose-acosta-explains-gamble-that-paid-off-in-sepang",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-31T08:35:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/motor-sports/2026/10/1567650/i-had-nothing-lose-acosta-explains-gamble-paid-sepang"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Sepang witnessed a thrilling sprint race at the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia today, where Pedro Acosta demonstrated his bravery and skill on a Red Bull KTM. Acosta, who had little to lose, took calculated risks and emerged victorious, finishing the race in a time of 20 minutes and 4.09 seconds, edging out his Ducati teammate Marc Marquez by just 0.578 seconds. Marc, aiming for the championship, secured the second position, while Marco Bezzecchi of Aprilia Racing rounded out the podium with a 1.310-second gap.\n\nAcosta's win marked his second triumph of the season, following his victory at the Red Bull Ring in September. Despite mixed conditions, Acosta expressed that he had nothing to lose and was determined to prove himself. He recounted, \"Mixed conditions, I do not normally do a good job, but today was the day to try.\" Acosta credited his team for their tireless efforts in improving the front of his bike, expressing immense pride and gratitude.\n\nMarc, leading the championship by 10 points over Jorge Martin and 50 points ahead of Bezzecchi, opted for a more cautious approach in the race. He explained, \"Marc entered the race with a 10-point lead over the injured Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) and a 50-point advantage over Bezzecchi. He admitted that he had to adopt a safer approach in the race, which unfolded in mixed conditions.\" The unpredictable weather played a significant role, with rain falling on certain parts of the circuit, forcing many riders to stick with their original bikes.\n\nAcosta's victory was a testament to his resilience and determination, as he capitalized on the chaos created by the deteriorating weather conditions. He reflected on the race, saying, \"It was an opportunity for me to try something different and we did a good job.\" Acosta's triumph not only solidified his position in the championship standings but also showcased his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.",
  "summary": "SEPANG: With Marc Marquez focused on the championship fight, Pedro Acosta knew he had an opportunity to shine at the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia today.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}