Martin wins Ducati shootout at Le Mans, SA's Binder rips through field to finish 8th

Jorge Martin extended his lead in the championship with a thrilling victory in the French MotoGP at Le Mans on Sunday, while South Africa's Brad Binder hurtled from 22nd at the start of the race to finish in eighth. 

The Spaniard, who won Saturday's sprint, battled the entire race with rival Francesco Bagnaia before Marc Marquez arrived late to steal second place.

Prima Pramac rider Martin heads the standings with 129 points, 38 ahead of Bagnaia who moved into second spot.

Martin held off stunning attacks from the other Ducati riders in Bagnaia and a lethal Marquez in the final throes of an exhilirating race.

As the final laps ticked down to the chequered flag, it was a battle of the alpha males of Bagnaia, Martin and Marquez, three of the most ruthless racers on the circuit.