Paffett, for his part, explained how he is looking forward to competing in his 'favourite series' with a front-running car for the first time since 2005 – as the McLaren-Mercedes F1 test driver seeks to repeat his crowning glory of four years ago – whilst after two years of finishing second in 2006 and 2007, just fifth place in 2008 has left Spengler 'motivated even more to be at the top from the very beginning this year'.

“In my eyes, the DTM is the best touring car series,” summarised Green. “Here you fight for every metre and every tenth of a second. Not only this, but I also like the spectators – and fortunately there are many of them.”

“The previous DTM season was a completely new experience for me,” added 2007 British F3 Championship runner-up Engel. “In my second DTM year, I want to make use of the opportunity Mercedes-Benz is giving me and score my first points.”