Rast predicts "20 or more drivers" capable of winning 2022 DTM

The DTM has witnessed a major surge in entries for its second campaign under GT3 regulations, with 29 cars from six manufacturers and 15 teams competing in the championship this year - an almost 50% increase on last year's 19-car grid.

Among the influx of new and returning drivers are several well-known names in GT racing, including Maro Engel (Mercedes), Laurens Vanthoor (Porsche), Aston Martin's Nicki Thiim (driving a T3 Lamborghini) and Rast himself.

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Audi driver Rast, who returns to the DTM this year with Abt Sportsline after a season away racing in Formula E, believes consistency could play a big role in deciding the outcome of the championship as he feels the majority of the field has the potential to challenge for the title.

“I think we've got like maybe 20 or more drivers capable of winning the championship,” said the 35-year-old.

“That depends a lot on lots of things. I think most of the drivers have the potential to win the championship. 

“In the end it probably depends who is the least involved in incidents, accidents, crashes and penalties. Obviously, also, the car performance will be playing a big role in the end result.” 

Mercedes has also assembled an impressive line-up of eight factory-supported cars, comprising the likes of reigning champion Maximilian Gotz and seven-time race winner Lucas Auer.

GruppeM team's new signing Engel, who is embarking on his third stint in the DTM this year, credited series promoter ITR for shrugging off its initial reservations about GT3 cars and putting together a strong cast of drivers and teams for 2022.

“It's fantastic to be back,” said the 36-year-old.

Kelvin van der Linde, Team ABT Sportsline, René Rast,