P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Pedro Acosta set a strong Friday pace at Portimao, but warned that rear-tyre degradation remains “a problem we have to keep living with”
Pedro Acosta was named by Alex Marquez as having a fast pace during the Portimao MotoGP weekend, where Acosta showed promise for victory at the Portuguese circuit with past successes and strong lap times.
Acosta’s soft rear tire choice matched the pace of Marquez’s medium rear tire before the time attacks, while acknowledging tire wear issues that may continue to challenge him and the KTM team in future rounds.
Despite the tire concerns, Acosta expressed satisfaction with his performance and acknowledged the need to address the tire wear as a primary focus for improvement.
Acosta highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the RC16 at the Algarve circuit, noting struggles in certain sections but remaining confident in the overall competitive potential of the bike.
Tech3’s Pol Espargaro also secured direct Qualifying 2 access as the only other KTM rider in the top positions during the practice sessions at Portimao.
