The 2024 DTM season has seen a significant drop in the number of entries, with only 20 cars participating. This marks the lowest number of entries since the championship switched to GT3 regulations in 2021. Various factors have been identified as contributing to this decline, including high operating costs, reduced manufacturer support, and unfavorable economic conditions. These factors have deterred potential participants from entering the championship, resulting in the reduced grid size.
Despite the decrease in overall entries, 17 drivers from the 2023 season have opted to continue competing in the DTM this year. Among these drivers are well-known names such as Marco Wittmann, Rene Rast, Lucas Auer, Maro Engel, and defending champion Thomas Preining. Additionally, Le Mans 24 Hours class winner Nicki Thiim has returned to the category, joining the SSR Performance Lamborghini team after a challenging debut with T3 Motorsport in 2022. The presence of these experienced drivers adds credibility to the championship and maintains a high level of competition.
Although the decrease in entries may raise concerns about the overall quality of the championship, former champion Van der Linde remains optimistic. He believes that despite the smaller grid size, the presence of top drivers ensures that the championship maintains a high level of competitiveness. According to Van der Linde, having renowned drivers like Rene and Marco in the DTM elevates its status and keeps it attractive for fans and sponsors alike. The focus on quality over quantity is seen as a positive aspect by some within the DTM community.
Reduction in First-Lap Incidents
One potential benefit of the reduced grid size is a decrease in first-lap incidents that have plagued the DTM in recent years. The GT3 era has witnessed several dramatic crashes, with events at the Norisring and Hockenheim marked by major accidents. The extent of damage from these incidents has forced multiple drivers to miss races and has raised safety concerns within the championship. Van der Linde suggests that a smaller grid could lead to fewer first-lap wrecks, as there will be less congestion on track during the initial stages of the race. This could contribute to a safer and more predictable racing environment for competitors.
While the decline in entries for the 2024 DTM season may raise some concerns, the continuity of top drivers and the potential reduction in first-lap incidents offer reasons for optimism. The focus on quality over quantity and the presence of established names in the championship suggest that the DTM remains a competitive and compelling series for both drivers and fans. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the smaller grid size impacts the dynamics of the championship and whether it leads to a more controlled and competitive racing environment.