Haug: « Being a former F1 driver in DTM is important… »

In a recent interview, Haug talks about the importance of the presence of F1 drivers in DTM, like Häkkinen or Schumacher.

« The DTM is blessed in this area. There are few disciplines outside of Formula 1 that can boast of having so many renowned drivers on its grid. Drivers such as Mika Häkkinen, Jean Alesi, Heinz-Harald Frentzen, Bernd Schneider, Tom Kristensen, and many others, » he stated.

« But it is impossible to have big names in a series at any given time. The primary quality of this sport, which is essential, is that the image of the DTM is good compared to other series. We have both big names and drivers unknown to the general public. The latter have the ability to beat the former and have proven it many times. »

« And that’s exactly what the DTM has provided over the past few years. Häkkinen, Alesi, Schneider, or Kristensen have won many races, but they have also been beaten by people like Tomczyk, Spengler, or Green. »

Häkkinen achieved good results in DTM with Mercedes. But at the end of 2007, he decided to retire and completely withdraw from racing. Haug allowed the Finn to do as he wished and did not try to convince him to stay.

« I didn’t try to hold him back. Motorsports is a passion, and it’s impossible to persuade someone without that passion. We respect his decision. We have cooperated with him for twelve years, and as he has been one of the greatest ambassadors of our brand, he will remain a member of the Mercedes family, » concluded Haug.