How many teams will be battling for championship points at the Red Bull Ring?
On the starting grid will be a grand total of ten teams fielding cars that sport the badges of seven different manufacturers on their grilles – Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Lamborghini, Ferrari and McLaren. The DTM weekend at the Red Bull Ring is a home race for GRT Grasser Racing; the outfit is based just ten kilometres from the circuit.
Who is currently best placed to win the 2024 DTM title?
At present, only one thing is certain: reigning DTM champion Thomas Preining is already too far behind to defend his title. Instead, the season is heading towards a showdown between Kelvin van der Linde and Mirko Bortolotti. Although the latter drives under the Italian flag, he lives in Vienna.
How many DTM races are contested on a race weekend?
There are two DTM races per race weekend. The races last 60 minutes plus one lap and the winner of each race scores 25 points.
Are there compulsory pit stops?
Yes, every driver has to pit at least once, which makes the pit stop an important tactical element. During the pit stop, nine mechanics get to work on changing tyres, fixing technical problems or carrying out minor repairs to the bodywork.
Do the DTM cars have driving or overtaking aids?
In the past, overtaking aids such as the adjustable rear wing (DRS) or the push-to-pass button were available to the DTM contestants. This has no longer been the case since 2021. However, the current GT3 cars have driving aids such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and traction control.
Is there a standing or formation start in the DTM?
Even though standing starts are common throughout most of the racing world, the DTM has used rolling starts since 2021. This involves the cars moving in close double-file formation towards the starting lights that will release the field for the race.
What is the Balance of Performance (BoP for short)?
Put simply, it is an attempt to provide a level playing field for the different vehicle concepts. This is achieved by adjusting vehicle weight, vehicle height, air intake, manifold pressure and various other aspects. The aim is for all cars to compete on an even footing.
Finally, a brief guide to the flags waved by the race stewards
- Blue flag: This is for tail-enders. It is waved to tell the driver of a lapped vehicle to move aside for the faster car behind.
- Yellow flag: This flag is used in the event of danger (e.g. an accident) and means that the drivers should slow down and not overtake.
- Green flag: The danger is over and the drivers can accelerate away again.
- Red flag: The session has been stopped by race control.
- Black and white chequered flag: The race or the respective session is over.
