Audi, BMW Commit to GT-Based DTM Future

Photo: Audi

Audi and BMW have pledged their support to a new GT-based future of DTM featuring privateer teams.

Announced Saturday at the Nürburgring, series boss Gerhard Berger confirmed plans to “reposition” the touring car championship into an “independent professional GT-based race series on the ITR platform” for the 2021 season.

As previously reported by Sportscar365, a move from Class One regulations to GT3-based machinery has been proposed, although the announcement fell short of confirming the exact specification the cars will run in.

Berger, however, has revealed that Audi and BMW will be stepping down from its ownership role of ITR at the end of the season, leaving Berger’s BMS organization with the sole responsibility of the series.

“During the past months, we have been discussing various strategic options for the future of the DTM in complex negotiations,” Berger explained.

“In the past days, I have had very constructive talks with Audi and BMW. Both manufacturers enable for me to take over the full responsibility for the future of a race series in which, for the moment, primarily GT cars will be running.

“That Audi and BMW are supporting a scenario for continuation is great news for all the employees and motorsport fans.

“In the future, no longer the factories, but independent professional privateer teams will be competing for victories on the platform. For me, it was important that both manufacturers commit to this concept, in order for the GT models of these brands to race here as well. I have this commitment.

“Therefore, I express my sincere thanks to the manufacturers: with their decision, they not only have contributed essentially to securing the jobs at the ITR and the DTM partners, but also enable fans and supporters to continue to enjoy top-level motorsport.

“Now, I am looking forward to working on a sustainable strategy for the future, together with our strong partners like Sat.1, one that will thrill the fans.”

Berger’s initial concept of modified GT3 cars has been met with mixed reactions from other manufacturers, including Mercedes-AMG, which has ruled out supporting such a formula.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John