Rollercoaster of a race for Paffett at Norisring

London, UK – Gary Paffett had a disappointing end to his race at the Norisring in Nuremberg last weekend, finishing 18th after an incident with one lap to go.

Gary Paffett, Mercedes AMG DTM-Team HWA DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupe

Photo by: XPB Images

Qualifying third on the 2.3 kilometres street circuit and feeling he had a strong car, Paffett was optimistic that a good result could be achieved.

Unfortunately the race didn’t start well with Paffett being penalized for jumping the start and a drive-through penalty being given.

He rejoined the race at the back of the field and when the safety car came out on lap 12, the team decided to change strategy and make his two mandatory stops within this period and risking 70 laps on prime tyres. Paffett was doing a great job, running consistent laps, gaining spots and saving his tyres where possible.

With 10 laps to go he was in contention for the podium, however during the last couple of laps, Paffett overtook Mortara as he exited the pits, only to be hit in the rear when Mortara braked too late on the front straight. His tyres were severely damaged but with two laps to go tried to make it to the end.

However as Paffett hugged the inside line going into Dutzendteich, Mortara collided with his rear wheel, spinning him around and ending both their races.

"That was certainly a rollercoaster of a race,” said Paffett. “It was disappointing to have managed to fight my way back to the front after the drive-through penalty and to then come away with nothing. The car felt strong, just like it had at Lausitzring and we had a great qualifying.

I have to thank my team for doing a great job and congratulate Robert (Wickens) for his first victory and pole. We are looking good for the future and although I am 24 points behind the leader we are only half way and still have everything to play for.”

Paffett is fifth in the Championship with 47 points. His next race will be at the Moscow Raceway in Russia from the 3-4 August.

Gary Paffett