15th October, 2010
Statements of the heads of motorsport concerning BMW’s involvement in the DTM as of 2012
DTM
Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, head of motorsport Audi: “The fact that BMW is coming back in the DTM is great news for the fans. Thus, the three German premium brands will be competing in the world’s most important touring car series as of 2012. This is another boost for our DTM series, which is already very popular anyway. BMW has a long tradition in touring car racing and suits the DTM perfectly. We know the brand already from many great races in DTM, in Super Touring and in sports prototypes and we are looking forward to a new encounter. BMW and Mercedes-Benz are our two main rivals on the global car market. The fact that we are able to compete with these two prestigious brands on the track fits perfectly into the motorsport strategy of our company. With four DTM titles since 2004, Audi is the most successful manufacturer in recent history of the DTM and the first manufacturer ever to win three DTM titles in a row. With BMW’s commitment, it will be even tougher in the DTM from 2012. We will gladly be facing this challenge.”
Norbert Haug, head of motorsport Mercedes-Benz: “From our point of view, a good decision that confirms how important it was and how right we were at Mercedes-Benz to continuously commit to the DTM for more than 20 years, and thus longer than any other manufacturer, in such a determined way. We are looking forward to the new and respected competitor from Munich and we congratulate them to their arrival in the DTM in 2012.”
