Valentin Debise (ZX Moto): A mixed bag at his home race

Valentin Debise is enjoying his best Supersport season to date this year and, barring any mishaps, the Frenchman is set to finish in the top three – after nine rounds, the star rider for newcomers ZX Moto sits in second place.

The 34-year-old has already secured six victories; ideally, two more were to follow at his home race in Magny-Cours – but he had to settle for third place in both. Debise was narrowly beaten: in the first race he was 0.392 seconds behind the winner, and in the second race 0.761 seconds. “I could have achieved more in the first race,” said a frustrated Debise. “At the start of the race, I was a bit too eager in Turn 5 and only just managed to avoid a highside. But I banged my head against the fairing and had to ride the rest of the race without a windscreen. I was much slower than usual on the straight. Otherwise, the bike was brilliant and the potential was there – that’s why I’m a bit disappointed. I wanted to go for second place, but when I saw that Arenas had crashed, I decided to settle for the points instead.”

The second race was abandoned following a crash by Tom Booth-Amos (Triumph) and restarted over just five laps. “That was a disaster for me – I’ve never managed a top-three finish in such a short race. This was the first time,” Debise explained in a one-to-one interview with SPEEDWEEK.com editor-in-chief Ivo Schützbach. “In terms of riding, I think I’ve improved over the course of the season. On the other hand, I’m a bit sad, because my motorbike felt fantastic – the team did a brilliant job – and I felt there was more possible. But talking about it is one thing; delivering is another. My team looked happy, so that’s fine.”

What prevails for Debise? The joy of podium finishes or the disappointment of missed victories? “I’m satisfied! If you’re on the podium in two races, that’s no reason to be annoyed. You have to bear in mind the level the Supersport World Championship has reached and that many potential riders are capable of winning. It’s so close that even a top-seven finish means you’ve done an outstanding job,” emphasised the Frenchman. “In my opinion, achieving good results at a home race is more difficult than on other circuits. At Magny-Cours, I didn’t have a moment to spare: an interview here, then meetings with fans and sponsors, and lots of other activities. Normally, I’m more introverted and focus on preparing myself.”