Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters – What You Need to Know

If you love fast cars on slick tracks, the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters, or DTM, is a must‑watch. It’s Germany’s premier touring‑car series and has been thrilling fans since the 1980s. Below we break down the basics, the latest season, and tips on seeing a race in person.

Quick history and why DTM stands out

DTM started as a national series for production‑based sedans and grew into an international championship with factory‑backed teams. What sets it apart is the blend of road‑car looks with race‑grade tech – think turbocharged V8s, sophisticated aerodynamics, and a strong focus on driver skill. Over the years, big names like Audi, Mercedes‑Benz and BMW have competed, giving the series a deep pool of talent and cutting‑edge machinery.

Cars, rules and race format

Today’s DTM cars use a 2.0‑liter turbo engine that produces around 610 hp. They run on a spec chassis, but each manufacturer can add its own aero tweaks, so the cars look similar yet feel different on track. A typical weekend includes a free‑practice session, a qualifying shoot‑out and a 60‑kilometre race. Points are handed out to the top ten finishers, with an extra point for the fastest lap.

Because the series uses a balance‑of‑performance system, no single brand dominates for long. That keeps the battles tight and makes every race unpredictable. Fans often cite the close finishes and frequent overtakes as the biggest draws.

Current season highlights

The 2025 DTM season features eight rounds across Germany, the Netherlands and Italy. So far, the championship battle has been tight between a young Mercedes rookie and a seasoned BMW veteran. Both drivers have swapped wins, and the midfield is packed with emerging talent looking to make a name for themselves.

If you’re wondering when the next race is, the calendar places a sprint at the historic Nürburgring in June and a street‑circuit showdown in Amsterdam in August. Each event packs a fan zone, live music and a chance to meet the drivers – perfect for a weekend getaway.

How to watch DTM live

There are three easy ways to catch a DTM race. First, tune in to the main broadcast on German channel Sport1, which streams online in many countries. Second, the official DTM app offers live streams, timing data and on‑board camera feeds. Third, if you love the atmosphere, buy a ticket for a circuit race. Most tracks sell day passes, and early‑bird tickets are usually cheaper.

When you go to the circuit, bring a hat, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle – the grandstands can get hot in midsummer. Parking is often limited, so arriving early or using public transport is a smart move.

Why DTM matters for everyday fans

DTM isn’t just another racing series; it’s a showcase of engineering that eventually trickles down to road cars. The tech developed for the turbo engines and aerodynamics often appears in new Mercedes, Audi or BMW models a few years later. Watching the races gives you a glimpse of what’s coming to the showroom floor.

Plus, the series fosters a community of passionate fans. Online forums, fan clubs and local meet‑ups make it easy to connect with people who share your love of speed. Whether you’re a seasoned motorsport junkie or a newcomer, DTM offers something for everyone.

So, if you’re hunting a new series to follow, give Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters a try. With its close racing, high‑tech cars and approachable fan experience, it’s a perfect blend of excitement and accessibility.