Vinales takes Moto3 title with Valencia win

Valencia (Spain) (AFP) - Spaniard Maverick Vinales surged to victory in the final lap of the Valencia Grand Prix on Sunday to claim the Moto3 championship.

With just five points separating Vinales, Rins and pre-race championship leader Luis Salom, the victor in Valencia was sure to win the title.

And it was Vinales who prevailed as he surged clear on the final turn into the home straight to finish just ahead of German Jonas Folger in second with Rins in third.

"I can't believe it, when I crossed the finish line I started to cry just thinking about being world champion," said an emotional Vinales.

"I have congratulate Alex and everyone else for making a great race to end a great year and fighting to the end."

Rins had started on pole, but was overtaken by Salom and Vinales at the start.

All three riders then remained grouped together until Salom's championship chances disappeared as he spun off the track with 10 laps to go.

"It was a bit strange, but these things happen when you are going at the limit," said Salom.

"It has been a great season and I congratulate Maverick.

"I have more victories than everyone in this season and I want to thank the team for the effort they put in."

Rins and Vinales then performed a series of daring overtaking moves as the lead swapped hands continuously in the final few laps.

And despite being beaten at the last, Rins insisted he was happy with how his season had gone overall.

"I am very happy, we couldn't win the title but we had a great year and fought with the best."