Preparations for the DTM season are almost finished. What do you like the most about the new Audi A5 DTM?
I prefer the new Audi A5 DTM to the previous A4 DTM. My feeling is that the handling really suits me. It has more grip that its predecessor. So far I’ve tested the car at Valencia and at Hockenheim. However, it’s also clear that with such a completely new design like the A5 DTM we still have to get to know it better in certain situations and how it behaves with specific circuit peculiarities to be able to judge it exactly. This is why I’m looking forward to the start of the season.
There have also been some personnel changes. Audi Sport Team Rosberg has employed Ossi Oikarinen as new Technical Director. Your impression?
Ossi Oikarinen brings know-how from 14 years in Formula 1, which you really notice. He’s very experienced, it’s great fun working with him and he gives the entire time a lot of confidence through his knowledge and how he works.
What’s on your personal agenda before the season starts?
Obviously my physical fitness. Also, motorsport once again dominates the entire day after having devoted the winter break to my studies which I will complete at the end of the year. I’ll also treat myself to a short holiday before the appointments come thick and fast from the middle of April. I flew to Abu Dhabi on Easter Saturday for a few days.
