Kelvin van der Linde Returns to DTM with Schubert Motorsport for 2026 Season
BMW M factory driver Kelvin van der Linde will make his return to the DTM in 2026, joining forces with two-time teams’ champion Schubert Motorsport. He will race alongside two-time drivers’ champion Marco Wittmann, as the team fields two BMW M4 GT3 Evos.
Van der Linde, who previously competed from 2021 to 2024 with Abt Sportsline, secured eight victories and a second-place finish in the drivers’ championship during his tenure. After a year away from DTM competition in 2025, he comes back to replace three-time champion René Rast in Schubert’s lineup.
“The DTM is a very special championship for me,” van der Linde stated. “It was always my childhood dream to race there and win races. I want to be successful right from the start and fulfill my lifelong dream of winning the drivers’ title.”
Wittmann, entering his 14th consecutive season all with BMW, finished fifth in the drivers’ championship last year, highlighting his consistency with four podium finishes. He aims for his third DTM title in 2026, supported by his established engineering team.
“I am really looking forward to another DTM season and am truly confident that I can be at the front again,” Wittmann commented, reflecting on the team’s strong foundation and performance in the previous season.
Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, emphasized the team’s motivation, saying, “We were so close to winning the title that we are even more motivated to do better this year.” Roos expressed confidence in the combination of drivers and equipment, highlighting the importance of their successful relationship.
The 2026 DTM season will commence at the Red Bull Ring in Austria from July 24-26, 2026. This strategic return of van der Linde to the series marks a significant development in BMW’s competitive landscape, reinforcing their commitment to regaining supremacy in the championship.
