Frenchman Emeric Jonchiere controlled the third round of this year’s Suzuki GSX-R Cup and ran out the winner by over four seconds at the flag. Emeric led from the start to the finish and was untroubled throughout the nine lap race held in gloomy conditions at the Nürburgring today. Second was Spaniard Ismael Ortega, who had dominated qualifying, with Austrian Roland Resch third. Ortega leads the championship, just nine points ahead of Jonchiere, with Resch in third place. The race was postponed from its earlier slot and took place just after 16.40 and by the time it had ended, and the crowds were beginning to leave, rain started to fall in earnest. Fortunately all riders were safely back in their garages by then, but it had been a close thing. Emeric Jonchiere – 1st For me that was a perfect race. I made a very good start and went hard into turn one, leaving the rest to fight each other. I soon pulled away from the rest of the field and from then on it was a lonely race. I like a battle, but when you ride alone you can chose your own lines and brake where and when you want to, so it is easier. Today I had no problems and although there were some spots of rain during the race, it never became anything serious. This was my first time here and although it’s a bit difficult to learn, I really like the track. Of course winning here makes a bit special to me and moving into second place in the championship is a good way to leave. Suzuki GSX-R European Cup Championship Nurburgring, Germany June 15, 2008 Race Results (all on Suzuki GSX-R750s and Pirelli tires): 1. Emeric JONCHIERE (FRA), 9 laps, 18:43.441 2. Ismael ORTEGA (ESP), -4.370 seconds 3. Roalnd RESCH (AUT), -5.169 4. Dani RIBALTA (ESP), -8.076 5. S. SALTARELLI (ITA), -8.206 6. Jeremy McWILLIAMS (GBR), -12.531 7. L. REICHELT (GER), -12.777 8. K. WAHR (GER), -14.276 9. M.STEVEN (GER), -14.793 10. T. GIESELER (GER), -21.336 14. Robertino PIETRI (VEN), -39.220