Suzuki Endurance Racing Team starts the defence of its World Endurance crown today with the opening practice and qualifying sessions at Oschersleben in Germany.

Fourteen-time EWC Champions SERT currently sits in fourth position, just nine points from the series lead; and with a total of 35 points available to the winner - who would have to lead throughout the Oschersleben 8-Hour race to get the extra bonus points available - there are several teams in contention.

Three Suzuki GSX-R1000-mounted teams fill the top-eight positions: Along with SERT riders Vincent Philippe, Anthony Delhalle and Etienne Masson are current series leaders Team April Moto Motors Events; Gregg Black, Gregory Fastre and Alex Cudlin on 68 points, eight clear of nearest rivals SRC Kawasaki and YART Yamaha Official, who are tied on 60 points.