Macau Grand Prix rookie Glenn Irwin’s hopes of a podium shot at his first attempt were dashed when he had to pull into the pits at the start of the final lap with a technical problem.

The Be Wiser Ducati BSB star was in contention for a top-three slot after qualifying on the front row and was less than a second from the leader when his Panigale gave up the ghost and he retired.

“To say I’m gutted is an understatement. I felt happy running with the other three riders and the plan was to make a move on the last lap. I pulled back half a second on Rutter on the lap before and was within 0.8 seconds of the lead when I suffered a technical problem on the penultimate lap,” said Irwin.

“It’s disappointing as I really felt I could have had a podium but these things happen. I’d like to say a massive thanks to my team, Ducati and the sponsors for making this happen and I’d love to come back again next year with the PBM Be Wiser Ducati Team and finish the job off.”