BMW M Motorsport Enhances Driver Development
Munich. BMW M Motorsport is set to enhance its driver development strategy through a new mentoring project in partnership with ROWE Racing, aimed at the GT World Challenge Europe starting in 2026. The #998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO will feature a blend of experience and youth, pairing veteran driver Jens Klingmann with promising talents Ugo de Wilde and Tim Tramnitz, all under a distinctive GEN M design.
United by Performance
The initiative, encapsulated by the slogan “United by Performance,” aims to foster collaboration among BMW M works drivers. This project will not only allow experienced drivers to share their insights but also support the growth of emerging talents like de Wilde and Tramnitz. Klingmann’s extensive experience positions him as an ideal mentor within this dynamic.
ROWE Racing: A Trusted Partner
ROWE Racing’s established success and expertise in nurturing drivers make it a fitting collaborator for this initiative. The team has cultivated a strong relationship with BMW, ensuring a supportive environment for the development of its drivers.
Upcoming Races and Objectives
The first outing for the #998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO will be at the season opener of the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup on 11th April at Le Castellet, France. Following this, four additional races are scheduled, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. Competing in the Gold Cup category, Klingmann, de Wilde, and Tramnitz will aim for top positions while prioritising their development over outright results.
Voices from the Team
Hans-Peter Naundorf (Team Principal ROWE Racing): “The primary objective for the #998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO is to foster our drivers’ growth in a performance-focused yet supportive atmosphere. By blending experience with youthful talent, we aim to enhance our capabilities in promoting emerging drivers.”
Jens Klingmann (#998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, ROWE Racing): “The GT World Challenge Europe represents one of the pinnacle GT3 racing series globally. I am eager to contribute not only to my own competitive ambitions but also to mentor younger drivers like Ugo and Tim. The knowledge I’ve gained over 13 years with BMW M Motorsport is something I am keen to pass on.”
Ugo de Wilde (#998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, ROWE Racing): “Joining a team with such an impressive history is thrilling. Having previously competed against ROWE Racing, I am now excited to learn from Jens’ expertise while supporting Tim through his transition into this competitive arena.”
Tim Tramnitz (#998 BMW M4 GT3 EVO, ROWE Racing): “This new challenge in GT racing is different from my previous experiences. The welcoming atmosphere among my teammates has eased my transition. With Jens’ guidance, I am looking forward to adapting to the car and learning throughout the season.”
© BMW Group
