Portimao Moto2 test: Dixon drives day one times

An impressive Saturday showing found Jake Dixon at the head of the Moto2 times midway through Portimao’s final session running 1’43.169 pace after just six laps and holding tight until the chequered flag came down.

The Aspar returnee had got off to a confident start in the morning times having completed the opening session second despite strong winds hitting the circuit, narrowly behind KTM Ajo’s Augusto Fernandez with Cameron Beaubier a further tenth on his tail.

The American Racing rider seemed to be firmly enjoying his preseason as he remained inside the top three for the second of Saturday’s three 70-minute session before completing the day fifth. Fernandez topped session two, this time from Pedro Acosta as last year’s rookie sensation continued to live up to the name.

Flexbox’s Aron Canet and Dixon’s teammate Albert Arenas trailed the Brit in the closing session with Fernadez’ earlier effort promoting him to third in the overall times just 0.006s ahead of his Red Bull garage mate and reigning Moto3 Champion.

Sam Lowes returned to Portimao ready for some intense work with the Elf Marc VDS squad as he fired up the morning in sixth. Steady midday evaluations saw the Brit circulate on mid 1’45 pace before his choice not to run in the final session saw him conclude the day 22nd overall.

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