Racing News

     

    (Photo from Maxime Martin)
     

    BMW DTM drivers hone their fitness

    The six BMW DTM drivers underwent an intense training regime this week. They were in Viareggio, Italy for a four-day fitness camp. Team doctor Riccardo Ceccarelli and his Formula Medicine team had put together an extensive and diverse training schedule to ensure that the drivers are perfectly prepared for the coming DTM season. The focus was on fitness, reaction and mental training with the programme including workouts on various pieces of equipment, CrossFit exercises, and outdoor activities like volleyball and clay pigeon shooting.

    “The fitness camp is a very important part of the pre-season preparations for us drivers,” said Bruno Spengler. “Particularly the team building aspect. After the long winter break, we all meet up and train together. It is always nice to come to Viareggio to see Formula Medicine. Doctor Ceccarelli and his team always come up with something new for us every year, and present us with new challenges – both physically and mentally. You could hardly have a better preparation for the new season.” 

    Race on Ice: Wittmann wins the DTM IceChallenge

    Marco Wittmann and Augusto Farfus found themselves on unfamiliar terrain this weekend: the two BMW drivers were in Sweden for the IceChallenge. The event, organised by the ITR, saw Wittmann and Farfus take on the opposition in the three premium manufacturers’ series cars on a frozen lake.

    Wittmann took on Lucas Auer (Mercedes) in round one, while Farfus locked horns with Jamie Green (Audi). Both BMW drivers emerged triumphant from their opening duels. The reigning DTM champion Wittmann also impressed in the second discipline—a two-lap time trial—to qualify for the final. Wittmann then won two of three final-round duels against Mercedes driver Maro Engel to claim the first unofficial title of the DTM season: DTM IceChallenge Champion 2017.

    “It was a great experience and we had a lot of fun. However, it was obviously a real challenge and the opposition was very strong. To win the first title before the start of the season – even if it was on ice – feels great, and is definitely a good start to the season,” said Wittmann.

    The 2017 DTM season opens with the first two races at the Hockenheimring (GER) on 6th and 7th May.