DTM: Gotz lands Mercedes race seat

Blancpain Sprint Series champion Maximilian Gotz will race for Mercedes in the DTM in 2015, the German manufacturer has announced. Gotz, who has established himself as a GT star in Mercedes machinery in recent years, switches across from the marque's customer sports program to its full-factory DTM effort.

"The moment when I first found out that I will be racing in the DTM in 2015 will stay with me for a very long time," said the 28-year-old. "It's a mega feeling to know that the success I achieved with different teams over the years during my time with the AMG customer sports programme was being closely monitored by the racing bosses at Mercedes-Benz.

"It's a little bit like a dream come true – I will be doing everything I can to achieve success in the DTM but I am also aware that I have a lot to learn this season."

Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff added: "Max has achieved many successes with the SLS AMG GT3 in recent years. His fine performance has earned him the opportunity to join the DTM.

"The three-pointed star has been promoting young racing drivers for many years, and the Mercedes-AMG customer sports program is another opportunity to support young drivers in addition to our involvement in Formula 3."

Gotz had his first taste of the Mercedes C63 DTM car during December's Jerez test.

Originally on Autosport.com