ITR chairman Berger talks future of DTM

Gerhard Berger, who became chairman of DTM's umbrella organization ITR in February, recently said during DTM's media day that the opportunity DTM presented him was "perfect," as the 57-year elaborated on the new position, his first impressions of DTM and the future of the touring car series.

"I have been active in motor racing for 35 years, but in the past three years I reduced my involvement," Berger said. "This wasn't easy for me as motor racing is my life. So I checked several offers and I the end I opted for the most tempting one. A new task also has to be suitable for my family. I have got two young children and so, I'm not ready to accept any compromises. Therefore, the Formula 1 environment with 21 races per year contested all over the world wasn't an option, for me. DTM, however, is perfect for me – exactly what I want.

"I always have been following DTM and even more so since my nephew Lucas Auer has been racing here. But drawing conclusions after just two weeks would be far too early. Hasty reactions would be wrong. DTM has made really good decisions, in the past.

On the possibility of making DTM a global circuit, Berger said internationalism wasn't necessary a goal.

"Germany and the neighboring countries are the home of DTM," he said. "We don't need races in South America or Asia. At the same time, there is a demand for globally standardized regulations – and this makes sense. In Asia, a series similar to DTM already is very successful. And this also could happen in America.

"If we keep on strengthening the DTM platform the series also will become interesting for other manufacturers. That's something I am positive about. But at this point in time we aren't in concrete conversations.

The DTM grid currently has 18 entries, which Berger considers the "absolute minimum." Berger aims for a larger grid.

"We will use the 2017 season to exactly analyze the actual condition. Then we get together with the manufacturers to set the course for the coming years. While doing so it's of maximum importance to always keep an eye on what the fans want and provide good sport. And then we will keep on enhancing DTM step by step with the appropriate measures."