Olympic Stadium in Munich awaits the DTM drivers
The DTM drivers heads to the Munich Olympic Stadium for the non-championship round that was introduced last year.
“Munich is a unique event – and as the name says: it’s a great show for the fans. The race is not part of the championship, so you’ve got to find a good compromise: you’ve got to be quick without risking the car. The track is different from the way it was last year. We’re all excited about it,” said Audi driver Filipe Albuquerque.
The race means home grounds for BMW, the newcomers of the DTM, and BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt is hoping to put the home manufacturer on top.
“There may not be any points up for grabs in Munich’s Olympic Stadium, but this event is obviously very special for us. Munich is the heart of the BMW Group. This is BMW Motorsport’s home. The opportunity to present ourselves in front of the crowds so close to the BMW headquarters and BMW Welt is an incredible motivating factor for everyone in the team,” said Marquardt.
Last year’s race was won by then Mercedes driver Bruno Spengler. While the Canadian has left to BMW, last race winner Jamie Green hopes to defend the honors.
“After my fourth victory at the Norisring, I’m looking forward even more to the DTM Show Event at the Olympic Stadium in Munich. The weekend is certainly going to be very interesting, for us drivers as well as for all the spectators packing the grandstands. As a driver, you obviously want to win every competition you enter, but the important thing this weekend is to put on a great show for the fans. Last year, I proved I can be fast in that stadium without bouncing off the walls. I’m aiming for a repeat performance this year,” said Green.
The layout of the circuit in the Olympic Stadium is new for this year with two synchronously configured 614 meter tracks. The format is new as well with teams of two drivers from each manufacturer competing on Saturday while Sunday means competition for all 22 drivers in head-to-head races.
“Returning to Munich will be a thrill. That’s where I celebrated my first victory in the DTM last year – even though it wasn’t a championship round. So, I’ve got fond memories of the event. This year, the track will be different and pose a new challenge to everyone. I hope we’ll be competitive again,” said Audi driver Edoardo Mortara.