Simeon claims first Grand Prix win

Xavier Simeon claimed his first Grand prix victory after a superbly judged race from the Gresini rider. Simeon, who had a podium at the season opening Qatar Grand Prix, had a superb finish to the 29 lap race and edged closer to Johann Zarco when it had appeared the Frenchman was ready to pull the pin and open a gap to his pursuers.

Franco Morbidelli, Tito Rabat and Alex Rins fought for the final podium spot with the Italian diving down the inside of Rabat on the final corner and taking both out to leave Rins able to claim the final spot on the podium.

Sam Lowes had a difficult day but it was solid damage limitation from the Speed Up rider to finish fifth on an inconsistent weekend where he has struggled on the bike. In the second half of the race he was as fast as anyone but lost too much ground in the early laps.