Jonathan Rea is a big fan of the Assen track. The Castrol Honda rider took both wins at the Dutch circuit last year, and won the first World Superbike race today, holding off 2010 champion Max Biaggi for the race victory.
Rea started from the front of the second row, but by the end of lap three he was leading the pack. But Rea never had a comfortable lead. Biaggi’s straightaway speed allowed him to catch Rea numerous times throughout the day. Rea was able to keep the 2010 champion at bay, however, and managed to take victory by .7 seconds.
It is Rea’s third consecutive victory at the Assen circuit, and the first for the Castrol Honda team since the iconic team returned to the World Superbike series.
Behind Biaggi came points leader Carlos Checa. Checa started from the pole position, but a slow start saw him drop down behind Biaggi and Rea.
World Superbike - Race 1 Results - Assen
- Jonathan Rea
- Max Biaggi
- C. Checa
- M. Melandri
- M. Fabrizio
- T. Corser
- E. Laverty
- R. Xaus
- A. Badovini
- M. Aitchison
