Gerhard Berger has confirmed that his ITR organisation is to close, and the DT brand they were responsible for managing and promoting will transfer to ADAC.
“We are now laying the foundation for a long-term future for motorsport in the German-speaking world. For the huge DTM fan community, this is good news”, said Berger*.
In a statement announcing the move, Berger made much of the success that ITR had made of their new GT3-based formula but offered no explanation as to why such success had not translated into the financial security necessary for ITR to continue.
“I am firmly convinced that the brand is in the right hands with ADAC,” he said. “The necessary know-how is available there in order to offer all motorsport fans a unique experience in the future. Due to the long-term experience, the established structures and the association’s own commitment to motorsport, ADAC is not only able to create the best possible synergies but also consistently develop the DTM further. Thus, the best prerequisites are in place so that we will continue to see successful motorsport at the highest level for many more years.”
ADAC Sports President Dr. Gerd Ennser: “No other brand represents German motorsport like the DTM. The ADAC is concerned with preserving the DTM, because it is part of motor sport’s cultural heritage. It not only enjoys an excellent reputation in Germany, but also in motorsport worldwide. Starting next year, the DTM will start a new chapter in its long history under the umbrella of the ADAC.”
ADAC are understood to be working urgently towards the release of a 2023 plan to encompass those aspects of the gt Masters and DTM packages that are to continue with neither core series having yet published calendars for the coming season.
* a sentiment unlikely to be shared with the reportedly 19 people who will lose their jobs with ITR as a result.
