Just a few months after the crash that left him in hospital and almost ended his season before it had started, Tom Kristensen returned to Hockenheim in the best way possible by storming to a dominant pole position in the DTM finale.

Heading into the season as one of the favourites, Kristensen was involved in a massive crash at the season opener held on the same circuit, one that forced him to miss the next four rounds and end his title aspirations.

Forced to play the team role since then, the Dane has not been in a position to fight for glory yet this year but is looking to do just that when he starts from his first pole position of the season – team orders permitting.

“A good qualifying,” he said. “Nice to be back up front again. The track became faster and faster. But I was even a little bit surprised by this time myself. I am hoping for a good start on Sunday to be able to drive a comfortable race out in front.”