In a thrilling comeback, Marco Wittmann (GER) secured his first victory since the 2022 season finale at Hockenheim (GER) during Sunday’s DTM race at Zandvoort. The Schubert Motorsport driver fought his way from 14th on the grid to claim the top spot, defending his lead in spectacular fashion. This victory also marked the BMW M4 GT3’s first win of the season.
Wittmann’s Remarkable Journey
Starting from the middle of the pack, Wittmann showcased the BMW M4 GT3’s strength, making strategic moves throughout the race. After a pit stop, he found himself in the lead, engaged in a fierce battle with Mirko Bortolotti (ITA, Lamborghini). Despite a damaged left rear tire emitting smoke, Wittmann held on until the checkered flag, celebrating on the podium.
Rast’s Podium Finish
On Saturday, René Rast (GER) secured Schubert Motorsport’s first podium of the year with a second-place finish. Rast, a seasoned DTM driver, stood on the podium for the 51st time in his career.
Van der Linde’s Consistent Performance
Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) consistently performed well, finishing both races in sixth and eighth places. On Sunday, he impressively gained nine positions in his #31 BMW M4 GT3.
ADAC GT Masters Victory
In the ADAC GT Masters, Maxime Oosten (NED) and Leon Köhler (GER) of FK Performance Motorsport clinched their second-season victory. Starting from fifth on the grid, they charged to the front, narrowing their overall standings deficit to just eight points. Their sister car, driven by Gregory de Sybourg (SUI) and Eduardo Coseteng (PHI), finished twelfth and ninth.
Post-Race Reactions
Björn Lellmann, Head of Customer Racing at BMW M Motorsport, praised the team’s performance, emphasising the nerve-wracking comebacks by BMW M works drivers. Torsten Schubert, Team Principal of Schubert Motorsport, highlighted Wittmann’s tenacity and the team’s successful strategy.
Marco Wittmann (#11 Schaeffler BMW M4 GT3) summed it up: “I am, of course, overjoyed. What a race!”
The spell is indeed broken, and the DTM season promises more excitement ahead.
