Randy Krummenacher submitted a last-minute effort of 1’39.933 to top the opening FIM Supersport World Championship session of the Motul Thai Round weekend on Friday. Up against the heat and humidity of the Chang International Circuit, the field was cautious as it adapted to the track conditions.

Krummenacher (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was the only rider to pass through the 1’40.000 barrier, while local fans were delighted to see wildcard rider Ratthapong Wilairot (A.P. Honda Racing Thailand) inside the top three and ahead of PJ Jacobsen (Honda World Supersport Team). MV Agusta Reparto Corse’s Jules Cluzel recovered from seeming early issues on downshifts to finish fourth quickest from Kyle Smith (CIA Landlord Insurance Honda), while Krummenacher’s team-mate and reigning World Champion Kenan Sofuoglu started quietly in 13th position.

It was an incident-free session with the exception of a technical problem for Cluzel’s team-mate Lorenzo Zanetti, who stopped his MV Agusta.

WorldSSP will continue with Free Practice 2, which commences at 14:45 local time (GMT +7).