Despite cool temperatures, the teams and drivers made full use of the Test & Media Days to get a feel for the new Pirelli tyres. “It’s incredibly good to be back at the Red Bull Ring,” said an enthusiastic Thomas Preining. In the second of two DTM races hosted by Spielberg last year, he ran out winner on a partially wet track. “Obviously, the plan is to repeat the home victory,” added the Manthey man. “But there are 30 drivers who have other ideas about that. It’s definitely not going to be easy.” Whatever the outcome, he is convinced the home fans can look forward to an exciting race.
This weekend, lovers of the sport got a foretaste of things to come when they were able to observe the 2023 cars close up and in racing trim at the Red Bull Ring. In addition, the paddock was freely accessible to the public. Consequently, everyone had the opportunity to take a look over the mechanics’ shoulders and to buttonhole various DTM drivers as they walked to their motorhomes. A final pit stop in the fan shop rounded off the day in perfect style for fans young and old.
There was also a great deal of interest for the journalists present, including a track safari. The media representatives were taken onto the race track in a minibus at the same time as the DTM cars were running through their test programmes. Of course, the minibus looked out of place among the thoroughbred GT3 cars, which weren’t even going flat out. But it was a fun experience all the same.
Lucas Auer was condemned to watch this weekend from the sidelines. Nevertheless, he was sounding upbeat: “I’m doing well. I’ve made huge progress, and I can’t really complain.” The Tyrolean was referring to the fracture of the lumbar vertebrae which he sustained in a horror accident at Daytona in January. Like the DTM fans, Auer is also eagerly awaiting the start of the season. “The field of contestants is extremely strong this year. I’m convinced that it’s going to be a competitive and exciting season.”
If you haven’t yet secured your ticket for the DTM weekend (22nd ‑ 24th September) at the Red Bull Ring, now is the time to do so. Get your tickets here at pre-sale prices, which start at €59.00 euros. Children under 16 enter free of charge.