DTM

Bruno Spengler: "I had to give 100 percent on every lap."

Munich, 7th May 2012. Bruno Spengler (CA) and BMW Team Schnitzer made history with the victory at the Lausitzring (DE), and claimed BMW's 50th win in the DTM. In an interview, Spengler describes his feelings after the thrilling race and the Tenth triumph of his DTM career.

Bruno, how does it feel to have achieved the first BMW victory of the new DTM era?

Bruno Spengler: "When I crossed the finishing line, this fact came straight to my mind. It is unbelievable: I am the first driver to stand on the top of the podium since BMW's return to the series after 20 years away. Lifting the trophy was a very special moment for me, particularly as my parents and girlfriend were at the podium ceremony to see what was a historic moment for BMW and me. It still sends a shiver down my spine thinking about it."

How tough was the race at the Lausitzring?

Spengler: "I had to give 100 percent on every lap and could not afford to make even the slightest of errors. The Mercedes behind me was piling on the pressure and just kept on attacking me. The key to the success was that BMW Team Schnitzer selected the perfect race strategy and the pit stops were spot on. The guys did a fantastic job. You can only succeed as a team in the DTM."

How were the final stages of the race for you at the wheel of your BMW Bank M3 DTM?

Spengler: "When my race engineer came on the radio to tell me that I still had another 15 laps to go, I thought: 'Wow, there is still a lot of hard work to be done'. I had to push pretty hard, because I was constantly under pressure. On the last lap I tried not to risk anything and end up off the track. Thankfully I managed to avoid making any mistakes. I was quite relieved when I saw the chequered flag. Then I wanted to get to my team as quickly as possible and thank each and every one of them."

How have you celebrated your win?

Spengler: "On the Sunday morning I checked out of the hotel as usual. I just