Pedro Acosta believes “super talented” rookie Diogo Moreira has the skill level to be competitive in MotoGP through his training alone.
Moreira joins the MotoGP grid as the reigning Moto2 World Champion, a feat Acosta achieved himself back in 2022, and the KTM rider has already heaped praise on the Brazilian.
There are evident similarities between both riders, with the pair enjoying off-road training activities and sharing their journeys on social media.
Speaking ahead of Moreira’s debut in November, Acosta commended his soon-to-be rival and said his talent was clear to see by looking at his training alone.
“The guy is super talented for sure, you only have to see his videos making flat track, supermoto, motocross or whatever. He’s fast in all disciplines,” Acosta said via Crash.net.
“Even if he came to MotoGP without winning a championship [Moreira later won the Moto2 title], he will be good because he will not have forgotten how to ride a bike.”
Acosta has already raced against Moreira since his MotoGP debut was confirmed, with the pair taking part in the 100km di Campeoni – an off-road event held annually at Valentino Rossi’s ranch.
Despite praising his talents, the Spaniard admitted he doesn’t expect Moreira to hit the ground running, instead suggesting it will take time to adapt to the ever-improving Honda package.
“I don’t think he will be that competitive from the first day… but sooner or later, he can be competitive.”
Moreira will be hoping to be competitive against Toprak Razgatlioglu in their battle for the Rookie of the Year award, with both riders eligible to participate in the Sepang Shakedown Test in January.
Meanwhile, Acosta will start his season in the first official MotoGP test on February 4-6, as the Spaniard hopes to see improvements from his KTM team.
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