Munich. Schubert Motorsport is gearing up for the 2026 DTM season with a formidable lineup, 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 place at the top of the drivers’, teams’, and manufacturers’ championships after a near-victorious 2025 season.
A Pair of Seasoned Drivers
Marco Wittmann is entering his 14th season in DTM, boasting titles from 2014 and 2016. Currently sixth in the all-time standings with 210 races, he could climb to second place if he has a successful season. Meanwhile, Kelvin van der Linde returns to the series after a year away, stepping in for the injured René Rast from last season. Van der Linde has already finished second in the standings, making him a serious contender for the title.
Last Season’s Performance
In 2025, Schubert Motorsport was in the championship hunt until the final race at Hockenheim. Despite a dramatic finish where Wittmann fought for victory, the team ultimately fell short. The experience gained this past season should fuel their ambition for 2026 as they look to capitalize on past successes, including team titles in 2022 and 2024.
Team Leadership and Strategy
Team principal Torsten Schubert is optimistic about this new driver duo, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and synergy. The continuity of the engineering team is crucial, fostering a collaborative environment that can enhance on-track performance. With drivers familiar with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the team is well-positioned to contend for the championship right from the start.
BMW M Motorsport’s Commitment
Andreas Roos, head of BMW M Motorsport, expressed confidence in their chances this season, highlighting the combination of car capabilities, team dynamics, and driver talent as key to their success. The DTM remains a vital platform for BMW, serving not only as a competitive arena but also as a showcase for their technical prowess and brand visibility.
Driver Outlook
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 goal 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 fulfill his childhood dream of winning the championship.
The Competitive Landscape
The competitive nature of DTM means Schubert Motorsport will face challenges from other established teams and emerging talents. With budget constraints and regulatory changes affecting 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.
In Summary
- Schubert Motorsport fields Marco Wittmann and Kelvin van der Linde for DTM 2026.
- Wittmann aims for a third title; van der Linde returns after a year away.
- The team narrowly missed the championship in 2025.
- Continuity in engineering staff should enhance performance.
- DTM remains a vital platform for BMW’s sporting ambitions.
