For many years, Timo Scheider and BMW's factory drivers have crossed swords as rivals on race tracks around the world; now the 38-year-old will join BMW Motorsport for the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring.
The 2008 and 2009 DTM champion has also put together an impressive résumé in GT racing over the course of his career. Scheider was part of the victorious team at the Nürburgring 24-hour race in 2003. He triumphed twice at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (2005 and 2011) and also reached the podium on his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2010. In this interview, he talks about his new challenge and his experiences with the BMW M6 GT3.
Timo, what are your thoughts as you embark on this new cooperation with BMW?
Timo Scheider: “I had completely forgotten how it feels to start a new project. For years, you believe that everything is perfect and that you are still fully motivated. Then, all of a sudden, you get a new boost and realise that there is more to give. This revitalisation can be converted into performance out on the racetrack.”
How have you found BMW over the course of your long career?
Scheider: “BMW has always been very pleasant. We always had fair battles with each other out on the track. I have many more friends in the BMW squad of drivers than at any other manufacturer. The chemistry is good. For example, Timo Glock is one of my best friends, and always talked a lot about how BMW Motorsport does things. It would obviously be a dream to share a car with him. Whatever happens, I am really looking forward to working with the guys.”
What are your expectations for the 24-hour race?
Scheider: “Last year, I had one or two battles with a BMW M6 GT3. I basically had a front-row seat from which to admire the strengths of the car so I think it is a great move for me to switch seats and line up in it on the Nordschleife. I am confident that the BMW M6 GT3 will be one of the cars to beat.”
