EMS Racing’s Craig Coxhell was less than 200 metres away from winning the European Superstock race at Assen when he crashed out defending his lead at the final chicane. In a race watched by 50,000 sun-drenched spectators, Craig rode an incredible race to stay with championship leader Keenan Sofuoglu, but was desperately unlucky and suffered his first crash of the season with the chequered flag in sight. Despite being spectacularly hit by Sofuoglu’s Yamaha, Craig was able to pick himself off the ground, remount the EMS Racing Suzuki and still cross the line in 11th place to claim what could be vital championship points.

From his front row grid position Craig stormed off the line to hold second place on the opening lap. Although it was Craig’s first ever race at the 5.997KM track he was able to stay in contention with Sofuoglu whilst defending spirited challenges from Luca Scassa and Alessandro Polita. With eight of the 11 laps complete Sofuoglu upped the pace again and Craig was able to respond keeping the Yamaha supported rider under pressure before making a stunning move for the lead with one lap to go.

Craig looked to have ridden the perfect final lap to keep Sofuoglu at bay, but at the final chicane the two riders were side by side on the brakes. Craig kept the lead into the chicane but ran slightly wide and crashed out. With nowhere to go, Sofuoglu collided with the EMS Racing Suzuki before running over Craig’s legs.

“It was certainly some race. It all went to plan at the start and I got behind Keenan (Sofuoglu) and was able to stay with him OK. I was hoping we were going to be able to make a break at the front but then I got passed by Scassa and Polita. I could see Keenan starting to get away so I had to get back into second to stop him making a break.” explained Craig.

“Then I just tried to put Keenan under as much pressure as possible, hoping he would make a mistake. He was holding me up everywhere apart from the final section of the track and once I got passed him I was trying to pull a little bit of an advantage, but he stayed with me and we were side by side going into the final chicane. I thought I had the win, but right at the last minute I lost rear grip and low sided the bike. Keenan ran right over my knee, which is pretty bruised now, so I was pleased that I was able to get back on the bike and finish the race.” he added.

“From a championship point of view it was a race that I had to win. Unfortunately it didn’t quite happen but it’s just made me more determined than ever for Lausitz next weekend. I’ve got nothing to lose so I’ll be going all out for victory once again.” he concluded.