Sand dunes and Zandvoort next up for DTM

The Deutsche Tourenwagens Masters heads to the Netherlands and Zandvoort this weekend. The 4.3 kilometer long track often provides good races and is acknowledged as a very demanding circuit by the drivers.
“The circuit is very demanding from a technical point of view – and very fast at the same time,” said Audi driver Oliver Jarvis.

Last year Mercedes driver Gary Paffett won the race ahead of Jarvis and Mattias Ekström. But except for last year, Audi has been the conquering manufacturer at the Dutch track.

And Audi Motorsport boss Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich emphasizes that this race needs to be the turning point for the German manufacturer.

“For the six victories in the remaining races as many as 60 points are yet to be awarded. We’ll do everything within our means to be capable of winning again at Zandvoort and to make up ground in the championship,” said Ullrich.

Heading the championship is Mercedes-ace Bruno Spengler. The Canadian has got a strong lead of 42 points, 16 points ahead of fellow Mercedes driver Jamie Green.

“After my victory at Nürburgring I want to increase my championship lead in Zandvoort if possible. Qualifying in 3rd place there last year was not bad, but I hope things will go even better this time. As for the commentators who are already marking me as the uncatchable favourite: it is not even half-time yet, and rather than thinking about the title I am concentrating on achieving the best possible result in every race,” said Spengler.

Ekström is Audi’s best hope for the championship fight. But the Swede only managed two points in the last race at Nürburgring and dropped to fifth in the championship, 19 points behind championship leader Spengler.

“Zandvoort will be interesting. I’ve always been strong there. So I’m even more excited to see what we’ll manage to do in the Netherlands this year. But one thing is certain now: I’m out to take sporting revenge!” said Ekström.