As DTM continues to evolve, the championship faces the challenge of balancing its traditional identity with the demands of modern, international motorsport audiences. One of DTM’s defining characteristics remains the calendar, which combines iconic permanent circuits with the unique challenge of street racing. However, the growing international interest increases the importance of fan engagement both at the track and through digital platforms.
For Aston Martin driver Nicki Thiim, those qualities are central to what makes the championship special.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Pit Debrief, Thiim reflected on the championship’s diverse circuits, his excitement about the season with Aston Martin machinery, and the steps he believes could help DTM continue to attract new audiences in the future.
Thiim praises DTM’s varied calendar ahead of Aston Martin campaign
The DTM calendar offers drivers one of the most varied challenges in GT racing with traditional circuits as well as street racing. Drivers and teams have to adapt to a wide range of layouts and characteristics throughout the season.
The Danish driver explained that his move to Aston Martin machinery had only increased his anticipation for the season and praised the overall balance of the schedule.
“I’d say personally there’s definitely more I’m looking forward to this year driving Aston than in the past. I think the schedule has a good mix of tracks,” he said. “With DTM it’s one of the only series that drives a street track, but we also have cool tracks like Sachsenring.”
Rather than pointing towards one favourite venue, Thiim instead suggested that the strength of the calendar lay in its diversity. Every circuit presents its own challenges and opportunities.
“We have really good tracks on the schedule,” he added. “Personally, there are a lot of tracks I’m looking forward to, especially with this car. Not so much really, so to say. Every track is good.”
Thiim praises DTM’s growing family atmosphere
As GT racing continues to compete for attention in an increasingly crowded motorsport landscape, attracting new audiences has become an important priority for series organizers.
According to Nicki Thiim, ADAC has already made meaningful steps in that area by focusing on creating an environment that appeals to families as much as traditional motorsport fans.
The Aston Martin driver explained that race weekends have increasingly moved away from the image of an event that is solely aimed for long-time racing supporters. The organizers placed greater attention on activities for children and experiences designed to encourage entire families to attend together.
“ADAC last year, I think they did a really good job on trying to bring in the family environment more. So they do a lot for younger kids. Just generally to try and wind the window, so it’s not only like in the past, it was just the boys going on a trip, bringing a lot of beer and watching some racing,” Thiim said.
“Now they really try to wind the window, so you maybe also get your wife to come and then bring your kids.”
Thiim praised these efforts and believes DTM is already moving in the right direction when it comes to broadening its audience.
“I think ADAC is on the good way,” he explained.
Thiim wants DTM to continue investing in digital content
Beyond the fan experience at the circuit, Nicki Thiim also highlighted the growing importance of digital engagement. The Danish driver believes that strengthening DTM’s online presence will play a major role in maintaining the championship’s momentum and attracting younger viewers.
“Obviously keep pushing the online business is always important as we know in this world we live in. That’s the only thing I can say,” he said.
One area where Thiim sees particular room for improvement is onboard coverage. Drawing comparisons with the World Endurance Championship, he suggested that additional onboard cameras would provide spectators watching from home with a closer connection to the action on track.
“Put some more onboards, maybe live onboards, like you have in World Endurance Championship. In WEC you have a lot more onboards,” Thiim explained.
“In the end you almost want an onboard in every car so that the spectator behind the screens can have fun.”
While acknowledging the financial implications that come with expanding broadcast coverage, Thiim believes those investments could significantly improve the viewing experience and help the championship continue to grow.
“I know it’s a cost thing,” he admitted. “But just keep pushing that thing.”
Thiim believes DTM only needs fine-tuning to continue growing
For Thiim, DTM already possesses many of the things required for long-term success. Rather than calling for major changes, the Aston Martin driver believes the next stage of DTM’s development lies in refining and improving the product that already exists.
“They’re doing a really good job on track,” Thiim concluded. “So it’s just fine-tuning everywhere.”
