Fabien Foret showed his maturity today by riding to a sensible fifth place finish to clinch the World Supersport Championship in front of 97,000 fanatical motorcycle racing fans at the historic Imola circuit in Italy.

"In the race the only thing on my mind was the championship," explained Foret. "It made it difficult for me because I knew I could match the pace of the leaders but I just didn't want to take risks ­ the title was more important than the race win. The last few laps were agony, I heard all sorts of noises coming from the bike and felt all sorts of wobbles and vibrations ­ none of which were actually there! I was so relieved to see the chequered flag!"

The entire team were obviously delighted at the outcome of what has been a very tense weekend for everyone involved; "The atmosphere in the pit box during the race was really intense," confirmed Team manager Ronald Ten Kate.  "Although Fabien had the advantage, this is racing and anything could have happened to ruin our day. But it all came good and now we're all over the moon! It's the perfect end to a perfect season. Now our mission has been completed ­ we are the champions!"

The result is a culmination of a year of hard work by everyone involved, the team, the sponsors and of course the riders.

"I want to thank everyone who played a part in making this happen for me," said Foret. "Pirelli tyres, Laser exhausts, WP Suspension, Honda and all the rest of them - they know who they are. But, above all, I have to mention the Ten Kate Honda team who have all worked so hard all year - I really can't thank them enough."

Foret's team mate Iain MacPherson made a point of congratulating Foret; "I take my hat off to Fabien," said MacPherson. "He's ridden really hard all year, he's been completely dedicated to getting this title and he deserved it above all others."

Although Foret finished the race in fifth, fourth place finisher James Whitham was excluded for a technical infringement after the race. This lifted Foret up an extra place to fourth.