Walkenhorst Announces BMW Entry for Series Debut

Walkenhorst Motorsport has announced that it will enter the revamped DTM series this year with an undisclosed number of BMW M6 GT3s.

The German squad, which has gained prominence in GT3 endurance events in recent years, will embark on a new sprint-focused program in the eight-round championship.

Walkenhorst won the Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli enduros at Indianapolis and Kyalami last year and was also the top GT3 performer in the NLS.

In 2018 the team won the IGTC centerpiece event, the Total 24 Hours of Spa, with a BMW M6 GT3 driven by Tom Blomqvist, Christian Krognes and Philipp Eng.

It will remain with BMW for its foray into the DTM, becoming the first outfit to commit to an entry with the Munich manufacturer.

“We are delighted to announce our involvement in the DTM. As a team, we have worked very hard to turn the DTM project into reality,” said team manager Niclas Koenigbauer.

“After our international achievements in the past years, graduating into the high-class DTM is a logical step to expand our involvement in GT3 racing. It is our aim to compete at the highest level in motorsport, so as a result, it was clear to us that the DTM is the place to be.”

Walkenhorst introduced itself to the DTM event platform last year, running a pair of BMW M4 GT4s in the DTM Trophy support series.

The team hopes to run a dual program between the two championships next season.

“During the races in the junior category, we got to know and appreciate the DTM platform and have established many contacts. That was highly valuable to us,” added Koenigbauer.

“Currently, we are planning a double program and are working on repeating our commitment in the DTM Trophy as now, optimum synergies have been created for teams on the DTM platform.”

The confirmation of a BMW effort means that both of the brands involved in the final season of the Class One regulations last year will remain in the DTM for the onset of GT3.

A two-car Audi entry has already been declared by Abt Sportsline.

“The BMW M6 GT3 is a highly matured race car with which we have had a lot of experience and many achievements over the years,” said Koenigbauer.

“We are convinced that we can be successful with the M6 against the strong opposition in the DTM as well.”