Abt Sportsline fields the Lamborghini Temerario GT3 with Engstler and Mapelli

The Allgäu-based team isn't just renewing its roster: it's also signing up Sant'Agata Bolognese's brand-new weapon. The Lamborghini Temerario GT3 will thus make its debut in DTM under the Abt banner, marking an important step in the collaboration between the two entities.

With five drivers' titles, 78 wins, and 92 pole positions since joining the DTM in 2000, Abt Sportsline remains the most successful and experienced team on the grid. A status they intend to defend with this new project.

Marco Mapelli, an experienced recruit

At 38, Marco Mapelli is preparing to experience the DTM for the first time. The Italian driver is not exactly a stranger to the sport, however, having already competed on several circuits on the calendar in the ADAC GT Masters, where he has four victories. As a Lamborghini factory driver, Mapelli was also involved in the development of the Temerario GT3, a significant asset for Abt.

« Being a DTM driver for Abt is a dream come true. I'm thrilled to be working with such a top-tier team throughout the season. From the very first moment, I felt right at home. You can feel everyone's commitment and passion, which is incredibly motivating to give it your all. Abt's history speaks for itself: this team races to win, and that's exactly our goal. "He says.

Luca Engstler, the local boy

Alongside him, Luca Engstler embodies continuity and local roots. Present in the DTM since 2023, the 26-year-old German already has two victories in the series. He was already driving a Lamborghini in 2025, the Huracán GT3 Evo 2, but for TGI Team Lamborghini by GRT.

« I'm extremely happy to be joining Abt. The team has been with me since I was a child; I used to pass the workshop every day on my way to school. Racing for Abt in the DTM today is a huge honor. A lot will be new for us, so this first year will also be a learning phase. But our ambition is clear: to perform well and constantly improve. Scoring points will be crucial, even on challenging weekends. "He says.

On the management side, optimism reigns. Thomas Biermaier, CEO of Abt Sportsline, is already delighted with this new partnership: We are delighted to welcome Luca and Marco to our team. From the very first weeks, we've seen that they've integrated perfectly, both on and off the pitch. We have a clear objective: to return to winning ways. With them, we're on the right track to achieve that. »

The 2026 DTM season will begin from April 24th to 26th on the circuit of Red Bull Ring, Austria.

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