Get ready for a seismic shift in the World Supersport Championship (WorldSSP) as a bold new partnership emerges, challenging the status quo and raising eyebrows across the paddock. ZXMOTO, a Chinese manufacturer, is set to make its debut in the 2026 FIM Supersport World Championship, and they’re doing it in style by teaming up with the renowned Evan Bros Racing. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Federico Caricasulo and Valentin Debise, two riders with deep ties to the team, are returning to the fold to pilot ZXMOTO’s all-new 820RR-R. This isn’t just a change of bikes; it’s a complete overhaul of strategy, ambition, and potential controversy. Is this the start of a new era, or a risky gamble?
Evan Bros Racing is no stranger to success, having spent eight seasons dominating with Yamaha machinery. Together, they racked up an impressive tally: 41 wins, 104 podiums, 24 poles, three Riders’ Championships, and two Teams’ Championships. Their partnership peaked in 2019 when Randy Krummenacher and Caricasulo swept both the Riders’ and Teams’ titles. But after a string of strong finishes, including Can Oncu’s runner-up spot in 2025, the team is turning the page. Why walk away from a winning formula? And can ZXMOTO truly compete at this level? These are the questions on everyone’s mind as Evan Bros embarks on this uncharted territory.
Speaking of Oncu, the Turkish sensation is moving on to Ten Kate after a breakout 2025 season. With six wins, 16 podiums, and four poles, he proved he’s a force to be reckoned with. But with his title rival, Stefano Manzi, jumping to WorldSBK, Oncu’s departure leaves a void—one that his mentor, Kenan Sofouglu, once filled with championship glory. Will Ten Kate be the platform Oncu needs to finally claim the top spot?
Back to Evan Bros, the decision to bring back Caricasulo and Debise is both strategic and sentimental. Caricasulo, a former runner-up in the Riders’ Championship, brings continuity and experience, having raced with the team from 2014 to 2016 and again in 2019. Debise, meanwhile, impressed in 2024 as the team’s sole rider, securing seven podiums—his best season to date. After scoring his first two WorldSSP wins with Renzi Corse in 2025, he’s ready to reunite with Evan Bros. But is familiarity enough to overcome the challenges of a new bike and manufacturer?
ZXMOTO’s 820RR-R is a three-cylinder, 819cc machine designed to make waves. Team Principal Fabio Evangelista is confident, stating, “I am very happy about this new adventure. We believe in the speed and development capabilities of both Caricasulo and Debise.” Yet, the transition from Yamaha’s proven R6 to an untested Chinese bike is a bold move. Will ZXMOTO’s debut be a triumph or a cautionary tale?
And this is the part most people miss: the broader implications of this partnership. If ZXMOTO succeeds, it could open the door for more Asian manufacturers to enter the championship, reshaping the competitive landscape. But if they falter, it could reinforce the dominance of established brands like Yamaha and Kawasaki. What does this mean for the future of WorldSSP? Is this the start of a global shift in motorsport?
As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is certain: the WorldSSP grid will never be the same. From ZXMOTO’s ambitious debut to Evan Bros’ daring reinvention, this season promises drama, innovation, and plenty of debate. What’s your take? Is this partnership a stroke of genius or a risky misstep? Let us know in the comments!
