French rider Valentin Debise, representing Chinese manufacturer ZXMOTO, narrowly missed the podium in a dramatic World Supersport (WorldSSP) Race 1 at Assen on Saturday. The 18-lap contest saw Ducati's Jaume Masia claim victory after a late surge, while Debise's valiant effort earned fourth place following a last-lap penalty.
Starting second on his ZXMOTO 820RR-RS, Debise engaged in a fierce early battle with Yamaha's Can Oncu. The duo initially broke away from the pack before being reeled in by the chasing group. A collision between Oncu and Triumph's Tom Booth-Amos created an opening for Debise, but a wide exit in the final corner cost crucial positions.
"We showed our potential again," Debise remarked post-race, referencing his historic double victory at Portimao last month that marked ZXMOTO's first WorldSSP wins. The Chinese brand continues to challenge established European manufacturers this season.
Masia's strategic tire management paid dividends as he overtook Yamaha's Albert Arenas and Booth-Amos in the closing stages. The result tightens the championship standings heading into Sunday's Race 2.
