autoevolution
 

Scheider Retains DTM Crown, as Paffett Clinches Hockenheim Finale

Timo Scheider today became the second driver in DTM’s modern era - after Bernd Schneider - to successfully defending his title. The German driver entered the history books on Sunday, after securing his second consecutive DTM title in career thanks to a great 2nd place performance in the season finale at the Hockenheim Ring.

Although British driver Gary Paffett won his 4th race of the season this weekend – perfect race, after starting from pole position – it was to be a sad Sunday for both him and his Mercedes crew. He started great in the race and retained the lead after the first corner, but had to put in a lot of fight against Audi’s Mattias Ekstrom to remain head of the pack.

After only 5 laps, that burden – namely Ekstrom – finally came off his shoulders, as the Swede retired from the race due to cooling issues. Ekstrom had initially damaged his car while trying to overtake Paffett, and the cooling problem was only a normal consequence of his constant attacks over the British driver.

His retirement powered Scheider into 2nd place, which he never let go until the finish line. The Audi driver didn’t pressure Paffet for the lead either, as he knew that a 2nd place at the chequered flag would be more than enough to secure him a second consecutive title. Therefore, he did nothing to jeopardize that position, as he also wasn’t challenged for 2nd place by Mercedes’ Paul di Resta.

The trio eventually crossed the finish line without any fighting on the track, while followed by Frenchman Alexandre Premat.

“I’m incredibly happy that we did it again - and once more in front of a spectacular turnout on my home ground. "I’m one-hundred-percent happy with my team and my Audi A4. That was the key to success throughout the season,” said Scheider after the race.

Fifth overall was British driver Jamie Green, followed by Oliver Jarvis and Bruno Spengler. Last in the point-scoring positions was Audi’s Markus Winkelhock.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories