Thailand WSS: Soguoglu on pole as Smith makes front row debut

Three time World Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu has taken his first front row start of the season, ahead of title rival Jules Cluzel and Brit Kyle Smith on the Pata Honda.

The Turk and Frenchman traded places throughout the session, but it was a late lap for the Kawasaki rider that gave him the top spot by some 0.2 seconds at the end.

Sofuoglu commented: “I’m so happy, because it’s the first pole position for my team. They’re working so hard, and now hopefully I can give them something else to be happy about for tomorrow.”

Speaking after the session, which ended prematurely with a crash with six minutes to go, said: “The weekend has gone pretty good, even though I was a little nervous before qualifying, which isn’t like me. There was a little bit of pressure, and I went out knowing I had to push after being on top yesterday. Then Sofuoglu and Cluzel put in fast laps, I had to push a little harder and down I went! I’m not too worried, though, because I think we have good race pace for tomorrow.”