Racer Arjun Maini is all set to make his DTM debut this weekend, becoming the first-ever Indian to do so. Maini has partnered with Mercedes-AMG affiliated team GetSpeed Performance and will be driving the Mercedes-AMG GT3 touring race car. The race car has been draped in the colours of the Indian flag in what is a proud moment for Indian motorsport fans. The first round of the revamped 2021 DTM Series takes place over June 19-20, 2021, with the series to conclude in October at Hockenheimring. Maini is an experienced international driver and previously competed in the FIA Formula 2 championship as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the LMP2 category. The 23-year-old was also a development driver for Haas in F1.
Also Read: Arjun Maini Becomes First Indian To Race In DTM With The GetSpeed Performance Team
Speaking about his DTM debut Maini said, "I'm delighted to be back racing full-time after the lockdowns affected my 2020 season. I have been wanting to race in DTM since 2015, when I was still in Formula 3, so it feels a bit surreal to finally be able to make my debut. Competing in the series certainly won't be easy but it's the challenge that makes this experience so exciting for me."
Speaking about the Monza circuit, he said, "I personally love Monza as a circuit, and I think it's always great for racing. However, the higher temperatures this weekend will result in tire degradation. So, it won't be a flat-out sprint race, as tire management will be more important."
The 2021 DTM series comprises 8 rounds starting at Monza with the finale at Hockenheimring in October
"As always I'd like to thank my partners for helping me tick another milestone off my bucket list. I wouldn't have gotten here without the help of my longtime supporter JK Tyre who have been with me since my Formula 4 days. I would also like to welcome my latest partner Mumbai Falcons who I'm honoured to say have supported my vision of becoming the first Indian to stand on a DTM podium. Finally, I'd like to thank Mercedes-AMG and GetSpeed for giving me the opportunity to race one of these beasts. The Mercedes AMG GT3 race car is enthralling to drive, and I can't wait to see what happens once the lights turn green on race day," he added further.
Also Read: Arjun Maini Bags Maiden Podium In DTM Norisring With A Second Place Finish
Founded in 1984, DTM is Germany's premier racing series and has seen some of the world's best touring cars lapping the circuits across Europe. The German triumvirate of Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi continue to feature in the championship, along with Italian stallions Ferrari and Lamborghini, as well as the British stalwarts from McLaren. This year's edition will also see an added dynamic with the introduction of the GT3 class of racing cars.
