In early February, the ADAC unveiled McLaren as the seventh manufacturer set to participate in the 2024 season of DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters), withholding specifics regarding the British automaker’s inaugural program in the series.
Recent revelations indicate that Dorr Group, proprietors of McLaren’s largest dealer network in Europe, will field two 720S GT3 Evos, piloted by Clemens Schmid and Ben Dorr, in the championship.
Both of Dorr’s entries will predominantly sport McLaren’s iconic papaya orange livery, a detail disclosed during discreet showcases at the group’s showrooms in Frankfurt and Munich over the past weekend.
While McLaren briefly featured in the series during the onset of its GT3 era in 2021, courtesy of JP Motorsport’s single 720S entry driven by former Formula 1 racer Christian Klien across three rounds, Dorr’s initiative marks the maiden full-season participation of a McLaren-backed team.
Previously, Project 1 emerged as a potential candidate for McLaren’s DTM venture. However, the long-standing German outfit declared bankruptcy last month, leaving Dorr as the sole contender.
Notably, several mechanics with experience from Project 1’s GTE Am program featuring the Porsche 911 RS-19 in the World Endurance Championship will transition to Dorr’s DTM endeavor. Furthermore, Axel Funke, former team principal of Project 1, will assume a managerial role within the Frankfurt-based operation.
For Dorr, whose foray into GT3 racing only commenced last year with the Aston Martin Vantage at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, the recruitment drive is paramount. The team’s DTM program is slated to span at least three years, ensuring its presence in the series until the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Team owner Rainer Dörr expressed gratitude towards partners, customers, and associates for assembling a robust package conducive to a successful season. He underscored the importance of sponsors committing for three years, acknowledging the initial learning curve and tempered expectations for the inaugural year.
Regarding the driver lineup, the team melds the seasoned expertise of Schmid with the youthful vigor of Ben Dorr, scion of the team’s founder. Schmid transitions to Dorr’s stable following stints with Grasser Lamborghini, while Ben Dorr secured his position after impressing during trials in Portugal.
“McLaren invited him for testing in Estoril and Portimao, where he demonstrated remarkable prowess,” shared Rainer Dorr regarding Ben’s selection. “Although he’s my son and relatively young, McLaren recognized his potential, cementing our decision to entrust him with a seat.”
Conversations also ensued with former F1 and DTM driver Timo Glock regarding a potential return to the German series. However, the talks faltered due to sponsorship constraints, precluding his participation.
With Dorr’s McLaren entry confirmed, the roster for the 2024 DTM season now boasts 20 cars, poised to kick off at Oschersleben on April 27-28.