BMW Team RMG’s Marco Wittmann has hailed his win in the opening DTM race of the year as ‘awesome after he took the first victory for the new turbo era in the series at a wet Hockenheimring.
Wittmann led the race, which began in very wet conditions, from start to finish to claim the 12th win of his career by a comfortable margin over Audi’s Mike Rockenfeller.
The two-time champion looked in control throughout the race and was never seriously challenged for the lead, even making his compulsory pitstop late in the running and avoiding losing his track position.
“This win feels great – first the pole position, then the first victory of the new turbo era: what an awesome start to the season,” said Wittmann.
“The Schaeffler BMW M4 DTM was phenomenal in the wet. My mechanics and engineers have done a sensational job – as have BMW Motorsport, who have given me a car that was competitive from the first lap.
“It was an unbelievable start to the DTM year.”
BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt praised the mechanics who prepared the new ‘Class One’ car ahead of the new season, with the win being their reward for a busy winter.
“That is absolutely awesome,” said Marquardt. “Today we have made DTM history again with BMW Motorsport, taking the first win of the new turbo era.
“First the pole position, then victory in the opening race for Marco Wittmann – that reminds me a little of the Formula E season opener last year, when we also started with a win.
“I am so proud of the whole team in Munich – of the teams and the drivers. A huge compliment goes to Marco, who did a magnificent job today at the front of the field.
“We have a tough winter and a tough period of testing behind us. To perform as we have done here at Hockenheim, and to win the first race, is fantastic.
“The experience gained during 50 years of turbo in motorsport at BMW definitely paid dividends. We have built a very good engine and put together a strong package, with which we have won at the first attempt.
“There is still a long way to go in the 2019 season, but today we have every reason to celebrate.”