DTM 2026 grid set at 21 cars as key names depart and familiar faces return

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The DTM confirmed its 2026 grid following the 31 March entry deadline, with 21 cars from eight manufacturers set to take the start. While the number marked a drop from 2025’s 24 entries, the overall picture remained one of continuity rather than decline.

The core of the grid stayed intact, but a series of manufacturer changes and team adjustments reshaped the line-up ahead of the new campaign.

Reduced 2026 DTM grid reflects manufacturer and team changes

The most notable shift came with Audi’s absence from the full-time grid. Land Motorsport’s switch to Porsche machinery effectively ended the brand’s permanent DTM presence, although guest appearances remained a possibility.

Lamborghini also scaled back its involvement. Maximilian Paul’s team exited after failing to secure the new Temerario, with the Huracán no longer supported under current DTM regulations.

Elsewhere, teams streamlined their programmes. Manthey and Emil Frey Racing both dropped their third entries, while plans for a second Land-run Porsche entry failed to materialise. Although late entries remained an option, the grid appeared set at 21 cars.

High-profile exits open the door for change

The driver market saw several significant departures. Three-time champion René Rast stepped away to focus on prototype racing, with Jack Aitken following a similar path. Reigning champion Ayhancan Güven also left the series as he prepares for a possible move to Formula E.

Jordan Pepper, one of the standout performers of 2025, paused his DTM campaign following his switch to BMW machinery.

However, the grid regained a familiar contender. Kelvin van der Linde returned after a year away, rejoining the championship with BMW and immediately adding depth to the field.

Matteo Cairoli emerged as one of the notable additions, stepping into Emil Frey Racing as Aitken’s replacement. While not yet a headline name beyond GT racing, his experience added further strength to the line-up.

Proven winners and rising talent headline the field

Despite the changes, the 2026 grid retained a strong competitive edge. Former champions Thomas Preining, Mirko Bortolotti, and Marco Wittmann all returned, each aiming to add another title to their record.

Timo Glock remained a key figure on the grid. The former Formula 1 driver continued with Dörr Motorsport’s McLaren programme and, at 44, stood as both one of the most experienced and most recognisable names in the field.

At the opposite end, the next generation continued to make its mark. Tom Kalender, fresh from his 18th birthday, remained the youngest driver on the grid. ADAC GT Masters graduate Finn Wiebelhaus also stepped up, joining Ford’s HRT squad as part of the Road to DTM pathway.

While smaller in numbers, the 2026 grid retained its quality. A balanced mix of established race winners, returning contenders, and emerging talent ensured the championship remained as competitive as ever