Pedro Acosta got his potential coronation weekend off to a fine start as he topped both P1 and P2 to end Friday practice for the Thailand Moto2 as the rider to beat in Buriram.

On the weekend he could be crowned champion if he out-scores Tony Arbolino by 19 points or more, though it will likely take something unusual for the Red Bull KTM Ajo rider to do that in Thailand, Acosta at least did his bit to ramp up the pressure by proving the man to beat on day one.

Indeed, Acosta fared markedly better than Arbolino, the Italian only managing the tenth best time of the day, leaving it to a surprise figure to lead the chase in the form of Marcos Ramirez, the Spaniard - who only stepped into the American Racing team mid-way through the season - an impressive second.

Fermin Alderguer continued his fine form to go third best, while local hero Somkiat Chantra - competing in a special livery to mark his home event - delighted the crowds with the fourth best time.

Aron Canet rounded out the top five from Jake Dixon, ahead of Ai Ogura, Manuel Gonzalez, Dennis Foggia and Arbolino.

Beyond Dixon, it was a tough start to the weekend for the Brits with Sam Lowes down in 19th, while Rory Skinner was 29th out of the 30 riders.