Connect with us

DTM

Standing Starts Abandoned; Driver Aids Retained for GT3 Era

DTM to shift towards GT style rules to “lower the hurdle” of entering GT3 machinery…

Photo: Audi

DTM’s traditional standing starts will be eliminated when it transitions to GT3-based machinery next year, while ABS and traction control are set to be retained on the cars.

Announced by ITR on Wednesday, the new-look German-based series will shift towards GT racing with measures made to “lower the hurdle” of entering next year.

Developing a bespoke launch control system and the deactivation of driver aids, which are built and developed into all FIA GT3-homologated cars, had been two of the major challenges from manufacturers wishing to support the series with its existing machinery.

ITR has yet to declare if any technical changes will be required for GT3 cars to be eligible.

The series will introduce its so-called “DTM formation start” in a rolling double-file formation, which in a statement, says is “proven” from use in the NTT IndyCar Series, although failing to mention that it is utilized in all sports car racing championships worldwide.

The “DNA” of the series will be retained by the single-driver 55-minute plus one-lap race format, which “unlike other GT race series” will not feature any driver changes. There will continue to be two races over each race weekend.

SAT.1 will remain the TV partner for live broadcasts in German-speaking countries, with races also streamed live on YouTube.

According to the statement, “numerous manufacturers and teams” have expressed interested in submitting entries for the 2021 season.

So far, both Audi and BMW have made commitments to support the series with customer GT3 machinery.

“During the numerous conversations we have had with interested manufacturers and teams over the past weeks, we have come to a final opinion and have decided to admit ABS and traction control and to introduce the DTM formation start,” said ITR event director Frederic Elsner.

“As a result, efforts and expenses are being reduced while the DTM’s high-quality motorsport will remain unaffected.

“The DTM’s proven elements like two sprint races per weekend, no driver changes and competitive pit stops will continue to provide spectacular action.”

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

Click to comment
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

More in DTM