Mattia Pasini made an impressive late charge to take victory in the 250cc Grand Prix in Qatar.

The Italian claimed victory ahead of long-time leader Hector Barbera and KTM man Mika Kallio, while Alex Debon just missed out on the podium in fourth.

It proved a fillip for the Polaris World Aprilia team, whose rider Bradley Smith miss a points finish in the 125cc race.

Alvaro Bautista dropped to sixth late on after competing at the front, while Thomas Luthi missed out on a chance of victory after being punished for a jump start. The Swiss rider finished 15th.

There was disappointment for Ireland's Eugene Laverty, who was forced to retire early on.

Qatar 250cc Grand Prix result

1 - Mattia Pasini

2 - Hector Barbera - +0.557

3 - Mika Kallio - +1.029

4 - Alex Debon - +1.418

5 - Yuki Takahashi - +12.944

6 - Alvaro Bautista - +14.480

7 - Karel Abraham - +16.721

8 - Roberto Locatelli - +18.987

9 - Aleix Espargaro - +32.232

10 - Hector Faubel - +41.102

DNF - Eugene Laverty - Retired first lap

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Alex Chick / Eurosport