ALMS champion Joey Hand confirmed for BMW

Reigning American Le Mans Series champion Joey Hand has been confirmed as the fifth BMW driver for the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters 2012.
“I am really looking forward to my new challenge in the DTM, and thank BMW sincerely for the company’s confidence in me,” said Hand.

Hand raced for BMW in the ALMS this year, claiming the title together with Dirk Müller with three victories, and the American got his first taste of the BMW M3 DTM at Monteblanco last month.
“I immediately enjoyed the BMW M3 DTM. Its downforce and carbon brakes are extremely impressive. I know some of the team members from the past, and was able to acquaint myself with the others in Monteblanco. Now I am looking forward to our close teamwork in future!” said Hand.

The 32-year-old has raced in different single seater championships before switching to Formula BMW USA in 2004 and then continuing on to sports cars.
“Joey has been a member of the BMW family for many years, and we are extremely pleased that he will now form part of our DTM project. His past successes have impressively underscored his skills set, and during the test in Monteblanco with the BMW M3 DTM he immediately proved to be very fast. We are convinced the addition of Joey to our line-up will substantially strengthen our project. In addition, his character fits into our team perfectly,” said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt.

One seat is remaining for BMW in the 2012 DTM alongside Hand, Andy Priaulx, Augusto Farfus, Bruno Spengler and Martin Tomczyk.