In an interview, Audi Sport driver Dennis Marschall looks back at the official ADAC GT Masters pre-season test in Oschersleben and discusses his role at Rutronik Racing by Tece, his goals for the season, and the appeal of racing in the German GT Championship.

How did the tests go?

Dennis Marschall: “We were basically happy with the pre-season test. We tried out a lot of things and gained some important knowledge. Some things went well, a few didn’t. However, the important thing is to learn from that. On the whole, we are heading in the right direction with our package.”

What did the test focus on?

“It was primarily about finding a basic set-up and finding out which aspects of our car work this year, and which don’t. We tested an awful lot of components, in order to be ready for any situation that may arise this season, and to be able to react accordingly.”

In Kim-Luis Schramm, you have a new team-mate this season. How well do you know each other?

“I have known Kim-Luis for many years. Because we are of a similar age, our careers have often run parallel. We have driven against each other in karting and in the ADAC Formula Masters. As such, we have been in touch for a long time. We have always got on well. It is cool to now share a car for the first time.”

This is your third season in the ADAC GT Masters with Rutronik Racing, while Kim-Luis Schramm is new to the team, as are Pierre Kaffer and Elia Erhart in the second car. Do you see yourself as the team leader?

“Yes, I do see myself a little as the team leader – someone who knows the car from previous years, and knows what it needs to be quick. However, I obviously also have three fellow drivers who also know the Audi R8 LMS well and have a lot of experience – particularly Pierre, who has been a member of the Audi squad of drivers for many years. I believe we have a good team and will support each other.”

Speaking of Audi. You are part of the squad of Audi Sport customer racing drivers for the first time this season. What has that changed for you?

“It is great to have this opportunity. The biggest difference is that I now have a fuller calendar, spread over the full year. I get to do more driving in the Audi R8 LMS in different racing series, with different circuits and different teams. That can only be a positive thing.”

With what expectations do you go into the new season?

“That is hard to say. The strength in depth is extremely high, as we saw during the tests. I think we will only be able to set realistic goals after the first few races. In principle, we want to win the title in the Pirelli Junior competition and achieve a few highlights, so that the competition always has us on their radar. We definitely have a good package.”

What can fans look forward to this season?

“The ADAC GT Masters has always been one of the most exciting racing series. That will be the same this year. We have about 30 cars from different manufacturers on the grid. It is going to be super close. On paper, there are once again at least ten pairings that could win the title. That makes it all very intriguing and exciting. I am looking forward to getting started.”