BMW is preparing to 'return to our roots' and enter the DTM

MUNICH // BMW plans to enter the German Touring Championship (DTM) in 2012 with the M3. Dr Klaus Draeger, the BMW board member responsible for development, said the focus of the company, which withdrew from Formula One last year, is now on raising its profile in production car racing. "BMW sports and touring cars have achieved success right around the world," said Draeger, "and have significantly influenced the brand's sporting profile right from the word go. For that reason, we see it as a consistent step to return to our roots after bidding farewell to Formula One, and to expand our commitment to this discipline." BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen said the planned return to the DTM is "an exciting challenge for our team. "Over the coming months, we will be making all the necessary technical preparations that should allow us to be competitive right from the start should we join the series in 2012," he said. For this to happen, certain basic requirements must be met. The governing body, the ITR, is currently working on these prerequisites.