ITR reacts to Mercedes' announced departure

The announcement last night of the end of Mercedes' DTM program after the 2018 season sounded like a hard blow for the German championship, which could only count on Audi and BMW in two years. ITR, promoter of the series, wanted to react after the press release from the brand with the star, which will redirect part of its forces towards Formula e starting in 2019-2020.

« ITR as organizer and promoter of the DTM regrets the choice of Mercedes. We must respect the decision in a sporting and fair manner. The DTM is one of the most important touring car series in the world. Mercedes announced its withdrawal at the end of the 2018 season in advance. This gives ITR time to analyze the situation and prepare a sustainable concept for the future. »

The departure of Mercedes and the possible return to a duel of manufacturers would not be a first, since the DTM was long organized on this pattern after the withdrawal of Opel at the end of 2005. The championship then only welcomed Audi and Mercedes until the return of BMW in 2012.