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Hockenheim 2004: Paffett breaks through.

Sunday, 18th April 2004

At the end of the 2004 DTM season opening race three youngsters gathered on the winners' rostrum - on top was Gary Paffett. After 37 laps, the 23-year-old Brit won, having a lead of 2.258 seconds over his Mercedes team colleague Christijan Albers and Audi pilot Mattias Ekström.

One man was in focus of public attention: former Formula 1 pilot Heinz-Harald Frentzen, who had his DTM debut. Mönchengladbach-born Frentzen came in eleventh.

"After a good start and a good first stop I attacked, unfortunately I expected too much from my tyres," Frentzen concluded. "DTM offers thrilling duels, a lot of fun and good sports for our fans. I am glad to be here with Opel."

Opel sporting director Strycek assented: "Heinz-Harald drove without attracting attention, but he did so in a good and clean manner. We will soon see a lot of him."

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