Acosta smashes Moto2 Portimao lap record, leads Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2

Moto3 world champion Pedro Acosta showed no signs of slowing down as he dominated the final day of Official Moto2 testing in Portimao.

With many calling the Spaniard a rookie sensation throughout the 2021 season, and rightfully so, similar words look set to define the 17 year-old as he goes into his first year in Moto2. 

Acosta, who was within a tenth of the leader on both days one and two, eventually ended the three day Portimao test nearly two tenths clear of team-mate Augusto Fernandez, while his S7 lap time was just under a second quicker than Remy Gardner’ official 2021 lap record. 

Speaking after his first official Moto2 test, Acosta said: "We have been able to try out many things during this test, which was the key to being clear about things when we get to Qatar. 

"We wanted to know what works and what we have to work on more. We have taken an important step forward and I’m happy about it. 

"Now I feel more prepared to start the season and, although we still have a lot to learn, we will try to do our best."

While all the spotlight is on Acosta due to his already brilliant performances, day three of the Portimao test looked eerily similar to last season for Red Bull KTM Ajo as they secured a 1-2.

Fernandez set his best time during S8 before he and Acosta elected not to ride in the final session - only five riders chose to do so. 

Although Fernandez appears to have a difficult challenge ahead of him due to Acosta’s impressive adaptation to the intermediate class, the former Pons and Elf Marc VDS rider looks back to his best after making significant steps with’ race tyres’.

"It’s been a hard and intense week of work, but I’m very happy with how each and every day of testing has gone, as I have felt better and better with the bike and with the team," added Fernandez. 

"Today we have been able to improve again, including with race tyres, lowering our lap times. 

"Now I’m clear about things and I fully understand everything I need to be ready for Qatar, where we will try to give our all and enjoy ourselves."