Previous Formula One-driver Ralf Schumacher will drive a 2009 specification Mercedes in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters this season. Schumacher said earlier that if he was to continue in the DTM, the condition was that he got a 2009 specification car.
“After only one year with last year’s car I now change to the up-to-date Mercedes-Benz C-Class. A great chance for me," said Schumacher.
"It was clear for all of us that 2008 would be a learning year for me, therefore I am satisfied with my achievements. The 2009 C-Class is a big chance for me and I want to justify the trust Mercedes-Benz put in me with good results," said Schumacher.
Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug is pleased with Schumacher's performance from last season and has got high hopes for the German for the coming season.
“During the last season, Ralf Schumacher demonstrated that he was racing in the DTM with all his heart and that, after his Formula 1 career, he does not consider touring car racing a challenge which he has yet finished. After his ‘learning year’, he will get the chance in our new 2009 C-Class: Now everything is up to him and to us and I am sure Ralf will show what he can do," said Haug.
Mercedes are yet to announce their exact drivers line up for 2009 and it is unclear which drivers will get to drive the remaining 2009 specification cars. An announcement on the subject is expected shortly.
Motorsport-Total.com estimates that Schumacher will earn approximately 3.5 million euro from Mercedes and other sponsorship deals in DTM 2009. If the figure is correct, it would mean that Schumacher earns more than all other Mercedes-drivers together.
