The 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship (WSBK) French round officially kicked off on September 5 (Beijing Time). As the ninth round of the season and the first race after the summer break, it took place at the Nevers Magny-Cours Circuit.
In the first WorldSSP main race, French rider Valentin Debise, representing Zhang Xue Racing, staged an impressive comeback to secure a podium finish.
Debise started from pole position thanks to his strong qualifying performance, but encountered difficulties at the start, dropping as low as 10th place.
However, he quickly regained his competitive rhythm, overtaking rivals over several intense laps. With stable control and excellent track pace, he climbed through the field to finish in third place, securing a spot on the podium.
Meanwhile, his teammate, Italian rider Federico Caricasulo, finished fifth overall.
Earlier, in the crucial Superpole qualifying session held on September 4, Debise delivered a brilliant performance to claim pole position, with his teammate Caricasulo securing second place. The two bikes locked out the front row, marking a new historical milestone for the team in WSBK competition.
As of the conclusion of the French round, Zhang Xue Racing has secured six race wins in the 2026 season, firmly holding third place in the manufacturers' standings.
In the riders' championship standings, Debise currently sits second overall thanks to his consistent and standout performances, making him a strong contender for the WorldSSP title this season.
Notably, while the WSBK French round was in full swing, Zhang Xue, founder of Zhang Xue Racing, began the second stage of the Dahaidao Rally, a motocross endurance event, on September 5. Facing a new course, Zhang remained calm and stated his aim to achieve an above-average result.
Additionally, the second WorldSSP race of the WSBK French round is scheduled to take place on September 6.