As the 2026 DTM season approaches, Lucas Auer, a veteran of the series and a key driver for Mercedes-AMG Team Landgraf, is preparing for a highly competitive year. With fresh partnerships, a new car livery, and a clear understanding of the challenges ahead, Auer is determined to make the most of every opportunity. In a recent press conference held during the 2026 DTM test at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Auer discussed his excitement about the upcoming season, his new team dynamics, and what he expects from the fiercely competitive field. Let’s dive into his reflections on the challenges and preparations for the 2026 DTM season.
Auer embracing new partnerships and iconic livery design in 2026 DTM campaign
Lucas Auer’s excitement about his new livery is palpable, and he shared his enthusiasm about the fresh partnership with Adidas. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for Auer, his team, and Mercedes-AMG as they look to make a statement both on and off the track. The partnership signals a focus on innovation, style, and performance – values that align perfectly with the DTM’s high standards.
“Yes, that’s right. And as you say, I’m absolutely delighted about the partnership with Adidas. I think it’s going to be a good season and I’m certainly looking forward to it.”
Auer also reflected on the new car design, which has already caught the attention of fans and media alike. However, while the aesthetics are striking, Auer is more concerned with the car’s performance and how quickly the team can optimise it for the upcoming races.
“That’s really cool. I really like it. Now we need to make sure that we are quick. But I really like it. As you said, it’s an iconic design. Really cool.”
Assessing the fierce competition and tire challenges
As a seasoned competitor, Lucas Auer is all too aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the DTM. He highlighted the exceptionally high calibre of drivers and teams that will compete for top positions in 2026. This level of competition makes the DTM one of the most difficult motorsport championships, and Auer’s understanding of this reality serves as a reminder of the daunting task at hand.
“First of all, it has to be said that the DTM is always brutally tough. It features the best manufacturers, the best teams and the best drivers.”
What stands out most for Auer this season, however, is the introduction of new tyres, which presents an entirely new challenge for all the teams. For Auer, the key to success in the early part of the season will be how quickly he and his team can adapt to these new compounds.
“And I think this year, with the new tyres, that’s going to be the biggest challenge. Who will get to grips with the tyres as quickly as possible? We’re all busy testing them at the moment. It’s a change. I reckon the tyres will be the biggest challenge – how quickly you can get to grips with them.”
The new tyres are expected to be a game-changer in how teams approach strategy, pit stops, and overall car setup. For Auer, this represents an important puzzle to solve if he is to maintain his competitive edge throughout the season.
Maintaining motivation after a thrilling 2025 season
After an intense 2025 season that saw the championship decided in the final race, Auer’s motivation remains unwavering despite missing out on top honours. Reflecting on the previous year, Auer acknowledged just how close and competitive the battle for the title was, underlining the level of effort required to keep pace with the top contenders.
“I’m always really motivated. I’ve prepared extremely well over the winter. I’ve already spent a lot of time in the car. I’ve fine-tuned everything from last season. Last year was a brutal year. We had so many title contenders right up until the final race. As we know from the DTM, this isn’t a walk in the park for this season. We’ll have to see how we get back into it. But we’re working hard to ensure we at least get off to a very good start.”
Auer’s commitment to improving and fine-tuning his performance is clear. Having already put in the necessary groundwork over the winter and spent significant time in the car to ensure everything is optimised for the upcoming season, his focus is squarely on hitting the ground running. Despite the fierce competition, he remains highly motivated to return to the top of the standings.
Auer set to feature at the 2026 24 Hours of Nürburgring Qualifiers ahead of 2026 DTM opener
With only days remaining until the DTM season opener, Auer’s preparation remains sharp and intense. Instead of taking a break, Auer is heading straight to the Nordschleife for the 2026 24 Hours of Nürburgring Qualifiers, where he will be participating with Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing alongside four-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen.
“I’m heading straight to the Nordschleife for Qualifying. I’m basically just sitting in the race car, which is the best preparation anyway, and everything’s going smoothly.”
Though his focus will not be on the DTM over the weekend at the Nürburgring, the infamous track will provide an excellent opportunity for Auer to gain a few more hours behind the wheel ahead of the upcoming season. As the start of the season draws near, every lap will bring him one step closer to being fully ready for the challenge ahead.
