DTM – Juncadella returns to Mercedes

Daniel Juncadella is the last of six drivers confirmed by Mercedes for the 2018 season DTM. After Gary Paffett, Paul di Resta, Lucas Auer, Edoardo Mortara and the return of pascal wehrlein, this announcement completes the training of the star manufacturer.

The 26-year-old Spaniard will make his return to the German Touring Car Championship after four seasons in the discipline, the last dating back to 2016 before the Hispanic driver focused on the Blancpain GT Series where he competed with the stable of Jérôme Policand AKKA-ASP. He nevertheless kept a foothold in the DTM by remaining a reserve driver for Mercedes.

“It feels good to be back racing in the DTM this year after a season break, comments Daniel Juncadella, 24th in the 2016 season. I was able to train for other forms of competition last year by racing in several GT series while maintaining a role as a reserve and test driver. I remained very close to the team throughout the season and was able to familiarize myself with the new generation of DTM and the rule changes. I always felt like I hadn't been able to prove my abilities through my results. I intend to correct the situation. »

“Daniel knows the team well and he remained present on race weekends through his role as test driver, underlines Ulrich Fritz, director of Mercedes-AMG Motorsport DTM. He will therefore not need much time to find his bearings. He already knows the car and the staff. »

Robert Wicken thus gives up his place, the 2011 Formula champion Renault 3.5 Series having a program with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports. Maro engel will now only be focused on Formula e where he plays with Venturi Fe.