Victorious Moto3 rookie Pedro Acosta can wait a few more years to take on the MotoGP stars, but thanks to Jack Miller he can already train with one.
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Acosta has taken Moto3 by storm this season, winning four of its first nine races, mostly from the pit lane in Qatar. He’s also avoided the normal rookie stumbling blocks to finish no less than eight, which resulted in a massive 48-point title advantage during the summer break.
The young Spaniard’s current team boss, Aki Ajo, is also Miller’s personal manager, so the two-time Ducati race winner has a particularly close eye on Acosta’s progress and is happy to provide the Spaniard with training and advice.
“I’m not taking out credit. This kid is amazing, second to none. His racing skills are fantastic,” said Miller.
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“He was there in Barcelona and asked if he could train with us. I was happy to have him there. He was super enthusiastic. I really like it when these young people come in and they aren’t superstars, they are “They just come in and are normal guys.
“We’re here to ride a motorcycle, and while it’s a job, you still have to have fun. He really enjoyed coming and training. The kid is a huge talent.”
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Despite not being a rookie, Miller jumped into the Moto3 title fight when he joined Aki AJo’s Moto3 team in 2014. The Australian arrived without a Grand Prix podium, but ended the season with six wins and second place in the world championship.
“I’ve learned a lot in my time here. I’ve been on both sides … When I was in Moto3, I didn’t know anyone or anything and I was trying to fight for a world title,” said Miller.
“I was just trying to give him a little guide by saying, ‘Do what you did, it worked so far. Don’t let anyone try to change you. Do what works for you and keep it that way. ‘ He’s a smart kid.
“Aki and I talked about it. I’m glad he’s coming to training. Like I said, he’s not a superstar, he’s not one of those people who thinks he’s better than everyone else.
“He’s just a normal guy who likes to ride a motorcycle.”
Miller’s Moto3 exploits were enough for Honda to send the Australian straight into MotoGP the following year, in the now defunct Open class.
Acosta is expected to take a more traditional route and move up to Moto2 with Ajo next season.