While the first corner had time to dry a little, the rest of the track was still totally wet when I got on. I used rain tires for both Q1 and Q2. Then, as conditions seemed to improve, we decided to go with the slicks for Q3… but Mrs. Rain soon paid a last visit. Things were pretty tricky at this point so I was glad to see a bit of sun back shortly thereafter. The track quickly heated up, although we had to be careful not to exceed the maximum laps allowed (8). Several drivers got caught and they were penalized by DTM officials. Fortunately, my engineer told me over the radio to get back to the pits immediately. Nice call!
I went first in Q4, which put me at a disadvantage because the last driver on the course generally benefits from optimum grip. I finished with the third best time -- not bad given the conditions.
On Sunday morning, momentum continued to build as I clocked the fastest lap during the warm-up. I completed as much as 34 consecutive laps with a solid average time despite riding on worn tires. Needless to say I entered the race with confidence.
I started out strong and maintained third place by avoiding the swarm in the first hairpin -- always a tough spot. The team opted for a long first run when we saw Ekström go back to the pits for his first stop. Since the track was clear, I posted one great lap time after another, just like I did in the morning warm-up. This strategy, combined with excellent pit work by my crew, allowed me to jump to second place. Now in my sight was Timo Scheider (Audi).
Boy, getting close to Timo proved difficult, let alone pass him. His car had terrific top speed. My only chance was to shoot inside in the last corner before the straightaway. With five laps remaining (out of 80), I found the opening and went for it. I had to defend my position, though, seeing how fast the Audi was. So, as the next corner arrived, I hit the apex… only to brake on dirt and lock the rear wheels, which forced me to make a wide turn.
Scheider and Jamie Green both seized the opportunity to pass me. Ekström even got right next to me, but I managed to fight him off. Then, Green beautifully overtook Scheider in the S-turn. Scheider drifted toward the dirt and I was able to step in front of him.
Green and I finished 1-2, respectively, which is great even though I would rather have won, obviously. I'm not really disappointed because I collected precious points for the championship. I now sit one point behind Scheider.
Time to focus on the next race - Zandvoort. This track is arguably better suited to Audis. However, our game is as good as anybody's and nothing's over until the checkered flag has been waved. Sunday's race was a great example of that!
See you soon!
Bruno Spengler
www.brunospengler.com
www.smartracepaint.com
photo:René Fagnan - Auto123.com & DTM
I went first in Q4, which put me at a disadvantage because the last driver on the course generally benefits from optimum grip. I finished with the third best time -- not bad given the conditions.
On Sunday morning, momentum continued to build as I clocked the fastest lap during the warm-up. I completed as much as 34 consecutive laps with a solid average time despite riding on worn tires. Needless to say I entered the race with confidence.
I started out strong and maintained third place by avoiding the swarm in the first hairpin -- always a tough spot. The team opted for a long first run when we saw Ekström go back to the pits for his first stop. Since the track was clear, I posted one great lap time after another, just like I did in the morning warm-up. This strategy, combined with excellent pit work by my crew, allowed me to jump to second place. Now in my sight was Timo Scheider (Audi).
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Boy, getting close to Timo proved difficult, let alone pass him. His car had terrific top speed. My only chance was to shoot inside in the last corner before the straightaway. With five laps remaining (out of 80), I found the opening and went for it. I had to defend my position, though, seeing how fast the Audi was. So, as the next corner arrived, I hit the apex… only to brake on dirt and lock the rear wheels, which forced me to make a wide turn.
Scheider and Jamie Green both seized the opportunity to pass me. Ekström even got right next to me, but I managed to fight him off. Then, Green beautifully overtook Scheider in the S-turn. Scheider drifted toward the dirt and I was able to step in front of him.
Green and I finished 1-2, respectively, which is great even though I would rather have won, obviously. I'm not really disappointed because I collected precious points for the championship. I now sit one point behind Scheider.
Time to focus on the next race - Zandvoort. This track is arguably better suited to Audis. However, our game is as good as anybody's and nothing's over until the checkered flag has been waved. Sunday's race was a great example of that!
See you soon!
Bruno Spengler
www.brunospengler.com
www.smartracepaint.com
photo:René Fagnan - Auto123.com & DTM