Spaniard Ismael Ortega won the second round of the Suzuki GSX-R European Cup, just easing out ‘wild card’ Fabrizio Pirovano after ten thrilling laps at Assen today. Ortega made a superb start and took the lead straightaway and despite terrific pressure from the veteran Pirovano, he held to take the chequered flag by less then two tenths of a second. Third place went to the winner of the first round, Dominic Lammert, with Patric Muff fourth.
Ismael Ortega - 1stI am very happy because that was a difficult race because I led from the start and was always under pressure from Pirovano and Lammert. Pirovano has loads of experience, so it feels special to beat somebody of his calibre. I am also very happy because this is my first international race win, so it’s a big day day for me - and also my team mates of course.
Assen is not a hard track to learn, but it’s a track that’s difficult to shave off those tenths of a second when you want to. But this track is good for me. I have had a lot of fun racing here this weekend and now that I have won my first international race, I want to do it again.
Manuel Alonso (Team Spain Manager)I am happy for Ismael and I am particularly happy for the team. I think I am right in saying that Spain is leading the nationalities in this series and that’s good for all of us. This series is a very good championship and it is a great opportunity for all the riders taking part because everybody sees them. I am grateful to Suzuki for supporting such a series and hope that many of the young talents here are recognised and have a chance to progress.
Crowd: 70,500 (3-day)
Conditions: Dry, sunny 17C
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