BMW are preparing for this week’s DTM race at Norisring after a four-week break in the championship calendar. While preparing, BMW has been forced to build a new car for Joey Hand after a fire during testing.
“BMW Team RMG has had to assemble a different chassis for the outing at the Norisring, following an incident at our test session. The car in question developed a leak in the fuel supply during the roll-out. The escaping fuel then ignited in the exhaust,” said Jens Marquardt, BMW Motorsport Director.
“Although some parts of the car can be reused, the chassis itself is no longer suitable for use in a race situation. This has not affected our preparations for the race.”
Currently best placed BMW driver is Bruno Spengler, one point from third position in the championship.
“I claimed my first DTM victory at the Norisring in 2006. I just really like the circuit. I have won there on three occasions and have always ended up on the podium. I really enjoy braking hard and late. It is not easy to find the ideal line, although there are only a few corners. The atmosphere is just great. It is my very favourite circuit,” said Spengler.
Right behind him in the championship is reigning champion and fellow BMW driver Martin Tomczyk, aiming for a podium.
“After last year’s unforgettable, rain-dominated race, I am already really looking forward to seeing what surprises the Norisring has in store for us this year. It is always a major challenge to drive on this fascinating street circuit with its two hairpins. In 2011 I managed to climb from tenth on the grid to third place by the end of the race. It would be great to be back on the podium again this year,” said Tomczyk.
BMW has no previous experience of Norisring with the current BMW M3 DTM while history shows strong results for the older versions of the M3 DTM.
“The race at the Norisring is traditionally one of the absolute highlights of the DTM season. We have strong links with this circuit, having claimed five DTM victories here in the 1980s and 1990s. Now we are returning to the Norisring with the new BMW M3 DTM. This circuit is special for a number of reasons. We have absolutely no past data and the track’s characteristics and low level of grip will present our teams and drivers with a completely new challenge. The DTM fans traditionally flock to Nürnberg, where they create a very special atmosphere. Every one of us is looking forward to doing his best to produce another great result against this impressive backdrop,” said Marquardt.
