Florian Kamelger (R-Motorsport): “In the position of outsiders”

Did the rule change provide the best window to start in DTM ?

Clearly. It's a real possibility to enter a series with such a shake-up of the rules, even for a "small team" like us.

How did the first runs of the Vantage DTM go?

It was promising. We have filled in the boxes of the program that we had set for ourselves. During the collective tests at the beginning of March, we expected to encounter the same problems that Audi and BMW had experienced during their private tests. We have a list of things to do between now and the start of this season that we will tackle from an underdog position. On the other hand, our partnership with HWA is incredible because everyone knows what they are capable of in DTM.

So are you on time for this first round?

Yes, even if the timing was tight. We put the car on track in 90 days, which is an achievement, with magnificent work from the mechanics and engineers who made the developments. Every member of the team was involved; a short schedule can also provide some energy.

Did you have to increase your workforce for this program which complements the Blancpain GT Series?

No. There are key people from the team who will be involved in both championships, because it makes sense (with the operation of the new Vantage GT3s. Editor's note). But I don't have to reorganize a team (HWA. Editor's note) which is the most victorious in the history of the DTM.

My role is more to instill a spirit. I don't have to tell an engineer how engineering works, or how to do a mechanic's job.