RACE PREVIEW // 2009 DTM FINALE @ HOCKENHEIM

This weekend sees the final race of the the 2009 DTM season at Hockenheim, Germany with both Audi's Timo Scheider and Gary Paffett for Mercedes involved in the title shoot-out. Reigning champion Scheider takes a seven point lead into the last round while Paffett who was triumphant at Dijon last time out is effectively an outside bet to take his 2nd DTM title... [read more]

The permutations are that Paffett has to win or finish 2nd with Scheider below fifth place to snatch the crown. Talking about the weekend Paffett said " I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain, so for that reason, I’m all fired up for Hockenheim."

Scheider (below) meanwhile commented "For me it would be the greatest thing to be able to clinch this championship again in front of a German crowd and to celebrate it. In any event, this is my dream."
Sundays final race of the 2009 season is a landmark occasion for Danish "Superstar" Tom Kristensen as it will conclude his DTM career. Tom has competed in the DTM since 2004 on Audi's return to the series, scoring nine pole positions, four race victories, 18 podium places and 212 points. For his last ever race his A4 has been emblazoned with a special livery in tribute to his time in the series. (below)

The fans at Hockenheim on Sunday will be treated to a special display of Mercedes race cars to celebrate their 75th anniversary. The line up for on track demo will include a W25 which was the first ever "Silver Arrow" which back in 1935 was fitted with a 3.7litre V8 that had an astounding output of 400bhp. Also on display will be the more powerfull W125 which followed on from the W25 and developed up to 592bhp!! Current machinery will include Mclaren Mercedes's latest F1 machine the MP4-24 which will be driven by Lewis Hamilton.


Photo: DTM & Neil Tozer
Editorial: Neil Tozer