Tasmanian Matt Phillips continues to lead the 2016 MAXXIS EnduroGP World Championship with one round remaining despite sustaining a costly mechanical DNF at Fabriano in Italy on Sunday.

Sherco factory racer Phillips was second on the opening day behind Christophe Nambotin (KTM), while Steve Holcome (Beta) completed the podium. Day two saw title threat Holcombe win, over Eero Remes (TM) and Loic Larrieu (Yamaha).

“It was a real shame to have my first DNF of the season,” said Phillips. “I felt really storing this weekend. I’m so happy with the bike and team package, but I’m still 18 points in front so looking forward to another good race in France. It’s such a pity as I was in a really good position, but that’s how it goes – onto the next one.”

Despite not recording any championship points from the second day of racing at the GP of Italy, Phillips is still in a strong position with an 18-point lead in the E2 class, while the fight for the overall EnduroGP championship is slightly tighter where Phillips leads by 15 points.