Paul di Resta back with Mercedes in DTM

2010 DTM champion Paul di Resta leaves Formula One and returns to the German championship this year for Mercedes.
“It feels really good to be back in the DTM and to see so many familiar faces again,” said di Resta.

The Scot left DTM after 2010 for Formula One where he has raced since for Force India, finishing 12th overall last year.

“Paul di Resta has been a member of the Mercedes-Benz family for many years, and we are delighted that he is returning to the fold this season to further strengthen our DTM squad. Paul has learned a lot during the past few years in Formula 1, and, together with Gary Paffett we now have two experienced drivers in our team, who have already won the DTM title with Mercedes-Benz and can put their knowledge to good use on the track, whilst passing on hints and tips to our Mercedes juniors,” said Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes Motorsport.

Di Resta joined DTM in 2007 with Mercedes and was quickly a front runner, finishing fifth overall in 2007, second in 2008, third in 2009 and clinched the title in 2010.

”I’m really looking forward to working with the whole Mercedes-Benz DTM team and being part of another championship challenge,” said di Resta.

“Much has changed since my last DTM race in Shanghai in 2010 with new cars, a new set of rules and a third manufacturer, but what has not changed is my enormous appetite for success. Mercedes-Benz has given me a car that I can use to fight for wins and the title. However, I realise that it will not be easy. My competitors already have two years of experience with the new generation of vehicles, but, starting with today’s first test, I’ll be going flat out in order to be capable of winning at the Hockenheim season opener in early May.”