René Rast bids farewell to DTM: "This support really warmed my heart"

When he arrives in DTM In 2017, René Rast was no longer a complete unknown. The native of Minden (Germany) arrives with a full list of achievements, including titles in Porsche Supercup, Porsche Carrera Cup and victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Spa. The German has a solid CV, but adapting to the demands of the German category is not always easy for rookies.

He swept aside any doubts and became the first rookie to win the DTM title since 1993. His career was launched, and it would end eight years later at the Hockenheimring, with a championship finish in 6th place. “Without a doubt, my first title in 2017 was the highlight of my career,” rewind the one who today wears the colors of BMW in WEC. “At the time, the DTM banned radio communication between drivers and the team, so I wasn't receiving any information. When I crossed the finish line, I didn't even know I was champion. Since I didn't hear any cheers right afterward, I thought it hadn't been enough. My joy was even greater two corners later when I heard the team's roars. That moment will stay with me forever.”

After his first title in 2017, René Rast added two more titles to his tally and 31 victories in total, including a perfect weekend at the Nürburgring in 2018, where he took both pole positions and both victories. Also champion in 2019 and 2020, the German ended his career with a retirement in Race 2 of the final at Hockenheim, despite being one of nine drivers still in contention for the title before the weekend.

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Longing for WEC… and quiet time

"I would have loved to fight for the title on the track, but unfortunately my race ended too soon," regrets the 38-year-old pilot.“I had definitely planned to thank all the fans and do a few donuts in front of the packed grandstands. Regardless of the championship fight, I would have loved to experience this final farewell lap after eight seasons in the DTM. Especially since the entire Schubert Motorsport team put so much heart into this season. I have rarely had such a passionate team by my side.”

Now, René Rast will be able to enjoy a little rest, even though he will still be behind the wheel of the BMW for the final round of the season in Bahrain. And after that? The future remains unclear. “I would like to continue in this championship, in the WEC”, he explained to us in Austin, on the sidelines of the Lone Star Le Mans. "We've worked a lot to improve the car and the team, so I'd like to continue, even if I don't know yet."

In the meantime, the three-time DTM champion is enjoying his family and some rest. “I am especially looking forward to spending more time at home and experiencing everyday family life much more intensely: taking the children to kindergarten or school, going to parents’ meetings, supporting them in their sports activities, etc.” he lists. “It’s all these simple everyday things that I now want to devote more time to.” Be careful though: participating in a WEC season remains a time-consuming activity, to say the least...