Zhang Xue Claims Third in WorldSSP Race 1 at 2026 WSBK French Round

On September 5, 2026, the first WorldSSP race of the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) French round took place at the Nevers Magny-Cours circuit. French rider Valentin Debise, No. 53 for Zhangxue Motorcycles, started from pole position, dropped as low as 10th during the race, and ultimately secured third place. In the Superpole qualifying session held on September 4, Debise claimed first position, while his teammate, Italian rider Federico Caricasulo (No. 64), qualified second—marking the first time that Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Zhangxue Motorcycles locked out the front row of the WorldSSP grid. This event was the ninth round of the 2026 season and the first race following the summer break.