Canet: 'Race pace the most important thing' in Moto2, finishes Portimao test P3

Aron Canet heads into the opening Moto2 race of 2022 as a contender for victory following his impressive P3 at the Official Portimao test. 

Canet, who was making his official debut for the Flexbox HP40 Racing Team, finished +0.267s behind Moto3 world champion Pedro Acosta, who himself will start the Qatar race weekend as a potential winner alongside Canet.

While Canet was ultimately bettered by both Red Bull KTM Ajo riders on day three of the Algarve test, the performance over one lap and race pace was particularly strong from the Spaniard. 

Canet was also one of the first riders to break new MotoGP rider Remy Gardner’ 2021 lap record as he finished day two fastest. 

Speaking after the test, Canet alluded to being surprised at how quickly he’s adapted to his new team, while also believing he’s ready for the first race which gets underway in 11 days time.  

"I'm happy with how the test has gone, the truth is that I didn't expect to adapt so well and quickly to my new team and bike, so it's something to be happy about," added Canet. 

"These three days of testing in Portugal have basically focused on doing a lot of kilometers and riding with the used tyre, thinking about the race pace which is the most important thing in this category and thinking about the first race in Qatar. 

"I am also satisfied with my fastest lap, which was normally my negative point, and we have achieved the third final position. 

"We can be satisfied with the work done and we are ready for Qatar and wage war."

On the other side of the Flexbox HP40 garage Jorge Navarro was tenth quickest - 1.038s down on Acosta’s top time. 

With just one podium to his name over the last two seasons, Navarro is in desperate need of a return to the 2019 form which saw him claim P4 in the championship.

Like Canet, Navarro is also set for his first Moto2 season with the team after having previously ridden for Speed UP. 

Navarro added: "It has been a fairly positive test, especially to continue getting to know the team and the bike and to get the feeling. 

"Every day we have improved a lot, both the sensations and the riding and that is what makes me the happiest, to see that we are progressing every time we go out on the track and knowing the room for improvement we have. 

"We will arrive in Qatar eager to continue working and eager to start the new season."