Pedro Acosta was back to winning ways as he managed the race from the front for victory in the Portuguese Moto2 Grand Prix at Portimao.
Pedro Acosta made a return to winning ways, keeping Aron Canet in check to confidently lead the Intermediate class over the line and take victory in the Moto2 Portuguese Grand Prix.
Filip Salac and Celestino Vietti stayed with the lead pair, with Tony Arbolino giving chase later in the race, but there were only two riders ever in contention for the win.
Canet lead the early laps from a second on the grid start, but once the red Bull KTM Ajo rider hit the front he looked to be managing the race. This proved true – every time Canet picked up the pace, the early season favourite responded.
The #37 only showed one moment of vulnerability where he had to control a wobble after running wide while enjoying one of his bigger margins back to Canet, going to to lead over the line by 1.358s for his third win at Portimao and fourth in Moto2.
Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) collected an incredible tenth second place as a win continues to elude the Spaniard.
Tony Arbolino started eighth for Elf Marc VDS and after working his way to behind the lead duo he gave everything to try and bridge the gap. Solo and with no=one to work off of or with the task proved impossible, but the Italian was clear and unchallenged for the final podium spot.
Polesitter Filip Salac couldn’t match the pace at the front after a handful of laps but still took a career best dry finish on his QJMotor Gresini.
Manuel Gonzalez (Correos Prepago Yamaha Vr46 Team) was fifth but had to work to keep two riders from catching him in the closing stages.
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Keyword: Portimao Moto2: Acosta keeps Canet in check to win season opener