Group training sets foundation for success: BMW DTM drivers in Italy to prepare for the new season.

Viareggio (IT), 8th March 2013. Just as they did prior to the successful 2012 season, the BMW drivers have launched the final phase of preparations ahead of this year’s season-opener in Hockenheim (DE) with a fitness week in Viareggio (IT). Under the guidance of Riccardo Ceccarelli (IT) and his Formula Medicine team, Augusto Farfus (BR), Timo Glock (DE), Joey Hand (US), Andy Priaulx (GB), DTM champion Bruno Spengler (CA), Martin Tomczyk (DE), Dirk Werner (DE), Marco Wittmann (DE), and test and development driver Maxime Martin (BE) all underwent an extensive programme, during which they worked on their mental strength and received valuable nutritional advice. BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt also visited the fitness camp for two days and took part in some of the training activities. 

“Like last year, the atmosphere within our squad of drivers is absolutely excellent,” said Marquardt. “Unfortunately the weather did not always play ball, but you could see the special team spirit in the gym and during the many indoor activities, such as tennis, volleyball and basketball. The medical examinations, sporting competition and, last but not least, the fun we all have stand us in excellent stead for the tasks ahead. Many individual components are important in order to be successful in the DTM, and team spirit is definitely one of them.” 

For the newcomers in the DTM squad, the diversified week in Italy provided the perfect opportunity to get to know their new team-mates better. “It was nice to have all the drivers in one place and to spend time together,” said Glock, who will be racing for BMW Team MTEK in 2013. “Every one of us received very precise feedback on exactly what areas we can improve. We trained hard, but also had a whole lot of fun and laughed a lot. In recent years I have only had one team-mate, now I have a few more. Each one is special in his own way, but we are all very focussed. We are ready to pull together and, hopefully, put together a successful season.” 

Martin, who like Hand travelled directly from Viareggio to the season-opener of the American Le Mans Series in Sebring (US), also enjoyed the week: “I was actually a little surprised just how good the atmosphere is among the DTM drivers. Everyone is on great terms with the others, and it is great fun to be a part of it. You take a lot out of a week like this. I learned a lot about racing-related fitness training. On Thursday I played a tennis doubles match with the DTM champion, long-time Formula One star Timo Glock and Jens Marquardt. At that point it became very clear to me just what it means to be a part of the BMW Motorsport works team. I now feel excellently prepared as I head to Sebring to meet up with BMW Team RLL.” 

While Hand and Martin are in action in the ALMS, the remaining BMW DTM drivers are preparing for the next test. From 26th to 29th March 2013, the BMW teams will take to the track in Barcelona (ES) at the ITR Tests. As is the tradition, the 2013 DTM season gets underway at the Hockenheimring (DE) on 5th May 2013.