Key Figures Driving DTM’s Resurgence
Since the DTM came under the stewardship of ADAC at the end of 2022, the series has experienced a remarkable revival. Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to GT3 regulations in 2021, fan engagement has strengthened markedly. Attendance at races rose by roughly 20% between 2023 and 2025, with last year alone seeing an almost 10% increase.
This upswing is not limited to trackside support. Global media reach for the DTM has expanded by 25% since 2023, while social media followings now exceed two million — a 53% increase in just three years. Manufacturers have taken notice, with Mercedes-AMG sporting director Thomas Jäger praising the championship’s progress at the 2025 Hockenheim finale.
ADAC’s leadership team has been instrumental in this turnaround, combining motorsport expertise with operational insight.
| Name | Role | Background / Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Gerd Ennser | ADAC Sport President | Former lawyer and F1/Formula E steward; re-elected May 2025; oversees DTM strategy and visual identity revamp; championed adoption of synthetic fuel |
| Thomas Voss | CEO, GTM GmbH & Head of Motorsport, ADAC | Former team coordinator at Abt, managing director at Oschersleben circuit; understands both team and circuit perspectives; directs day-to-day DTM operations alongside Ennser |
| Michael Rebhan | Sporting & Event Director | Responsible for sporting regulations and team liaison; 19-time Nürburgring 24 Hours competitor; formerly raced for BMW Alpina and Franz Engstler teams |
| Kay-Oliver Langendorff | Sponsorship & Commercial Director | Oversees partnerships, sponsorships and commercial strategy; DTM press officer in 2000; led ITR communications (2004–2008); returned to ADAC in 2012 and expanded sponsorship role since 2015 |
| Oliver Runschke | Media & Press Liaison | Former journalist; hosts post-race press conferences and manages DTM media relations |
Ennser, 66, has focused on consolidating the DTM’s position in Germany while leaving open the possibility of international expansion. Under Voss, the newly formed ADAC subsidiary GTM GmbH ensures smooth collaboration between teams, circuits, and organisers, while Rebhan serves as the operational bridge with the paddock, providing guidance and resolving sporting queries.
Commercially, Langendorff has leveraged decades of experience to secure sponsorships and partnerships, complementing Runschke’s media coordination, which ensures professional coverage and post-race communications.
Together, this leadership cohort has not only stabilised the championship but also laid the foundation for sustainable growth, stronger manufacturer involvement, and renewed global interest in one of motorsport’s most historic touring car series.
