For German motorsport fans, the country’s most popular touring car series needs no introduction — but DTM also enjoys a growing fan base in Austria. This article is for them, and for everyone else who wants to learn how this racing series grew into a major motorsport event that often fills grandstands to capacity.

What makes DTM unique is that, despite featuring some of the world’s biggest automotive brands today, it has preserved much of its original spirit. This is why it remains one of the crown jewels of German car culture — a reference point that reflects where the German automotive industry currently stands, what the trends are, and where manufacturers might be heading. And importantly, DTM weekends have managed to avoid the overly Americanized showbiz atmosphere that some critics associate with Formula 1.

The History of DTM

Everything began in 1984 with the first race of what would soon become an organized German touring car series. The inaugural race was won by Harald Grohs behind the wheel of a BMW 635 CSi. The first championship title went to another BMW driver, Volker Strycek, who famously didn’t win a single race that season but secured the title with remarkable consistency — while his rivals made costly mistakes.

The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a period of consolidation for the series. BMW dominated early on, followed soon by Audi. In 1992, the DTM saw its first — and so far only — female race winner: Ellen Rohr, affectionately known as “Miss Elli,” who beat Bernd Schneider and Keke Rosberg to victory. Rohr’s 142 race starts remain a record of endurance and dedication.

1993 brought a major turning point: strict technical regulations were introduced, ending the “wild west” era. In 1995 and 1996, DTM expanded internationally, racing through the streets of Helsinki in front of nearly 100,000 spectators.

In the early 2000s, two drivers stood out. Mika Häkkinen became only the second driver, after Keke Rosberg, to win in both Formula 1 and DTM. Even more significant for DTM was Bernd Schneider, who competed from 1986 to 2008 for Ford and Mercedes, winning five drivers’ titles and 43 races — a legendary record.

The 2010s also had key milestones. BMW returned in 2012, sweeping the drivers’, teams’, and manufacturers’ titles with Bruno Spengler. In 2019, the 500th race was held, and in 2023, nine different drivers won races — proof of the series’ competitive balance under the new regulations.

The 2025 Season – New Trends and Highlights

The 2025 DTM season was a milestone year. The calendar featured eight race weekends and sixteen races, including classic venues such as Hockenheim, Nürburgring, Norisring, Lausitzring, Zandvoort, and the Red Bull Ring. The goal: maintain the series’ German heritage while ensuring strong international appeal.

Regulatory adjustments for 2025 created a tighter field and more exciting racing. Shorter race distances, increased tactical elements, and closer competition delivered thrilling battles. Premium brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, Ferrari, Ford, and Lamborghini continued to compete fiercely.

Sustainability also played a greater role this year. The series put more emphasis on environmentally friendly fuels and efficient logistics, underlining its importance as a showcase for German automotive innovation. Attendance figures reflected this momentum, with many races held in front of near-capacity crowds.

2025 Champions and Key Statistics

Ayhancan Güven became the symbol of intelligent and consistent racing this season, winning the drivers’ championship for Manthey EMA. Mercedes-AMG secured the manufacturers’ title with 418 points, while Manthey Racing claimed the teams’ championship.

The distribution of race wins was remarkably balanced: Porsche claimed seven victories, but Audi, Mercedes-AMG, Ferrari, and Lamborghini drivers also reached the top step of the podium. This made 2025 one of the most competitive seasons in recent history.

Fan enthusiasm was also at record levels. DTM remains one of Germany’s most popular racing series but is also rapidly growing in Austria and the Netherlands. The series’ organizers are even considering further international expansion. The goal is clear: to make DTM not only a legend of the past but a symbol of the future as well.