Chinese delegation thrilled with Norisring trip.

A Chinese delegation - headed by the president of the national motorsport federation Tian Shu Shi, and Maggie Ip, managing director of promoter BCG - visited the DTM race at the Norisring, three weeks ahead of the series' invitation race in Shanghai on 18 July.

Accompanied by two teams from broadcasters CCTV and Shanghai TV, they gathered an impression of the extraordinary atmosphere surrounding the DTM street race in Nuremberg as well as of the organisation of the event.

"In order to promote the subject of motor racing in China, our best option was the DTM, given that it is the world's premier touring car series," Ip explained, "The event here in Nuremberg has really impressed me. It's nice to see people of all ages in the stands - something that we want to achieve in Shanghai."

The flyaway race will be staged in the heart of Shanghai, the country's economic centre, and will weave past landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The track is 2.84km long and around 40,000 spectators are expected to attend. CCTV, which has the furthest reach in China, will cover the race live, as will Shanghai TV. German broadcaster ARD will beam pictures from the heart of Shanghai live to German fans.

"The circuit, including all hospitality facilities, will be constructed entirely within only 30 days," Ip continued, "It is situated very centrally, right by the 468-metre high Oriental Pearl TV Tower with its 88 floors. The stands can accommodate 22,000 spectators. We are looking forward to a prestigious event."

All Mercedes and Audi drivers, as well as four Opel drivers, will take part in two runs of 30 minutes each. In addition, Audi will be competing with Le Mans winner Rinaldo Capello and Peter Terting.

"The DTM is a touring car series recognised throughout the world with a very high level of prestige," Tian Shu Shi commented, "The race in China will be the start of motorsports of a high and professional calibre, and a good opportunity for extending our co-operation with Europe's car industry. We've witnessed here at the Norisring that the DTM not only offers attractive motorsports, but also an eventful weekend for young and old. Very many people in China are looking forward to the DTM's visit - we are very well prepared."