Munich. Schubert Motorsport is gearing up for the 2026 DTM season with a formidable line-up, featuring seasoned driver Marco Wittmann and returning competitor Kelvin van der Linde behind the wheel of two BMW M4 GT3 EVOs. The team aims to reclaim its status at the top of the drivers’, team, and manufacturers’ championships after a near-miss in 2025.
Driver Line-Up and Experience
Marco Wittmann enters his 14th season in the DTM, having previously secured titles in 2014 and 2016. Currently sixth on the all-time list with 210 race starts, he has the potential to ascend to second place should he complete the season successfully. Meanwhile, Kelvin van der Linde returns to the series after a year away, taking over from René Rast, who was sidelined due to an accident last season. Van der Linde has previously finished as high as second in the standings, making him a strong contender for the title.
Last Season’s Performance
In 2025, Schubert Motorsport was in contention for the championship until the final race at Hockenheim. Despite a dramatic finish that left Wittmann fighting for victory, the team ultimately fell short. The experience gained from that season is expected to fuel their ambition for 2026, as they look to build on their past successes, including team titles in 2022 and 2024.
Team Leadership and Strategy
Team Principal Torsten Schubert is optimistic about the new driver pairing, emphasising the importance of teamwork and synergy. The continuity of the engineering crew is crucial, as it fosters a collaborative environment that can enhance performance on track. With both drivers familiar with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the team is well-positioned to challenge for the championship from the outset.
BMW M Motorsport’s Commitment
Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, expressed confidence in their chances this season, highlighting the combination of car, team, and driver capabilities as key to their success. The DTM remains a critical platform for BMW, serving not only as a competitive arena but also as a showcase for their engineering prowess and brand visibility.
Drivers’ Perspectives
Wittmann is eager to return to the front of the grid, having established a solid foundation with his team over the past two seasons. His focus for 2026 is clear: to secure a third DTM title. Van der Linde shares similar ambitions, viewing his return as a homecoming and expressing a strong desire to achieve his childhood dream of winning the championship.
The Competitive Landscape
The DTM’s competitive nature means that Schubert Motorsport will face challenges from other established teams and emerging talents. With budget constraints and regulatory changes shaping the series, teams must adapt their strategies accordingly. The success of their campaign will depend not only on driver performance but also on technical development and race strategy throughout the season.
En résumé
- Schubert Motorsport fields Marco Wittmann and Kelvin van der Linde for 2026 DTM.
- Wittmann aims for a third title; van der Linde returns after a year off.
- The team narrowly missed out on the championship in 2025.
- Continuity in engineering staff is expected to enhance performance.
- The DTM remains a vital platform for BMW’s motorsport ambitions.
