BMW has announced Alex Zanardi as the first of its three drivers for the DTM/Super GT crossover race at Fuji.
It will mark the first DTM appearance for the Italian since Misano in 2018, when he raced as a BMW guest driver and finished fifth in the rain-affected Sunday race.
“To compete in the Dream Race with the DTM and SUPER GT is something wonderful for me,” Zanardi said. “The word ‘wonderful’ is probably used too often, but it’s really appropriate in this case.
“The mere fact that I’m still able to go racing is like a gift for me anyway. However, the BMW M4 DTM is definitely one of the best race cars I’ve driven in my career – and I will have an extra 100hp under the bonnet this year!
“Against such a tough and professional field, my expectations are not too great, but I just want to perform to the best of my ability and put on a display worthy of the event.”
Zanardi's last racing appearance with BMW came at the beginning of the year, when he took part in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Alongside John Edwards, Chaz Mostert and Jesse Krohn, the Italian finished the American endurance classic in the #24 BMW M8 GTE.
BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt added: “Nobody has forgotten Alex’s magnificent DTM guest start at Misano in 2018. Now, we’re delighted that he’ll be getting behind the wheel of a BMW M4 DTM as part of our dream team for Fuji. Alex inspires people all over the world, and it is fantastic to have him on board in Japan.”
BMW and Audi have yet to confirm their remaining line-up, with BMW still to announce two drivers while Audi has yet to announce any details.
