BMW will definitely return to the DTM, it has been confirmed today. The decision follows the announcement back in April when the manufacturer said it was its ‘intention’ to race in the German tin-top series from 2012.
“The Board of Management of BMW AG considers conditions tied to a positive decision to return to the popular touring car series have now been met,” read a statement from the manufacturer.
“In recent months BMW has been working with the DTM umbrella organisation ITR e.V. and the other manufacturers represented in the DTM on issues relating to the future technical regulations, and the long-term internationalisation of the championship. The positive nature of these discussions means BMW Motorsport can now begin planning its DTM comeback in greater detail.”
Dr Klaus Draeger, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG with responsibility for development, said: “The return of BMW to the DTM is a fundamental part of the restructuring of our motorsport activities [after we axed our F1 programme].
"With its increased commitment to production car racing, BMW is returning to its roots. The race track is the perfect place to demonstrate the impressive sporting characteristics of our vehicles against our core competitors in a high-powered environment. The DTM is the ideal stage on which to do this.”
BMW last raced in the DTM in 1994 and the intention is to use the BMW M3 as the basic DTM vehicle - a car that has enjoyed unique successes in the field of touring and sports car racing in the past.
“The entire team at BMW Motorsport is approaching this exciting project with absolute commitment,” added BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen.
“We began making technical preparations following our declaration of intent in April, and established parameters for a high performance vehicle concept for deployment in the DTM. The positive decision of the BMW Board of Management means we can now shift up a gear and give the green light for development.”
Meanwhile, Hans Werner Aufrecht, Chairman of the Board of ITR - the DTM's commercial rights holder and promoter, has welcomed the news.
“This is a further milestone for the future of our popular racing series, and proves that our efforts over the past few years have paid off,” he continued.
“We laid the foundation for this in conjunction with the DMSB and the existing DTM manufacturers, namely Audi and Mercedes-Benz. Thus I would like to heartily thank all parties.
“I am personally looking forward to again seeing the three premium brands of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz competing against each other on the race track. Our fans have waited a long time for this.”
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