Elkins Named DTM Race Director Alongside Formula E Role

Former IMSA senior technical official Scot Elkins has been named as the new race director for the DTM and DTM Trophy from next season.

Elkins will oversee the German GT3 series’ race control team in addition to his established role as race director for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

The American succeeds Niels Wittich, who is transitioning to a permanent FIA role as the deputy to Formula 1 race director Michael Masi, and as the race director for both F2 and F3.

Oliver Grodowski will stand in for Elkins at the DTM rounds that clash with Formula E. The current schedule sees the two series overlap for Portimao and the Norisring.

Christian Vormann will serve as the assistant race director at all DTM events.

“The DTM platform is providing unique racing with just one driver per car and the start in DTM formation,” said Elkins, who previously worked in executive technical roles at IMSA until early 2015.

“I think that I am bringing in a somewhat different approach because of my experience in the US, but I hope that not much will change as a result and that the decisions remain fair and consistent.

“For me, motorsport is about people first and foremost, so therefore I am looking forward to getting to know new colleagues, drivers and teams in the DTM environment.”

Elkins will lead a delegation of 15 sporting representatives on behalf of the Automobilclub von Deutschland, which is the sporting organizer of the DTM platform.

“We are delighted to be able to present with Scot Elkins a vastly experienced race director, acknowledged on the international stage, for the upcoming season,” said AvD secretary general Lutz Leif Linden.

“I am very happy with the first season in DTM. I would like to thank Niels Wittich for his effort and the good cooperation. There is no doubt about his huge competence and we are happy when our paths are crossing again.

“Speaking on behalf of the AvD team, I wish Niels a lot of success for his new duties with the FIA.”

Frederic Elsner, director of events and operations at DTM organizer ITR, added: “Scot Elkins is radiating an unbelievable presence and is showing massive commitment already in preparation for the new season.

“With his vast experience, he will be an asset for DTM and DTM Trophy and will be making his mark on them. We are convinced about that.

“For the internationally growing platform, Scot Elkins is the right new signing. And also with an eye on the future, we are certain that, with all his expertise in electrified motorsport, he is an asset for the further development of DTM Electric.”