Wittmann: Second DTM title confirms I'm no "one-hit-wonder"
Newly-crowned DTM champion Marco Wittmann says his second title in four years reaffirms his first championship win back in 2014.
Alexander Trienitz
The German, having made his DTM debut in 2013 with MTEK, won his first title the following year with RMG and last weekend became a double champion, beating Audi's Edoardo Mortara in the season finale at Hockenheim.
The 26-year-old thus joins Audi's Timo Scheider and Mattias Ekstrom as two-time title winner, while Mercedes' Bernd Scheider heads the list with four titles to his name.
Talking about the importance of his second win, Wittmann said: "The first title has to be judged emotionally higher, the second time I was probably a little more composed.
"But it is already difficult enough to win one DTM championship, the second one is perhaps a confirmation that the first one was no one-hit-wonder."
"[It is] absolutely incredible. Two championships in four years and being the youngest double champion.
"I'm happy about my second title. And next year... perhaps title number three!"
Further comparing the 2014 win with 2016's, he added: "In 2014, I was more tense. But of course, you listen to the car, avoid the kerbs, and don't risk any damage to the car.
"You are more cautious, but when it came to the last lap, there was a moment that really gave me goose bumps.
"Especially at the beginning of the Motodrom, I knew, another three turns and I will have it in my pocket. These are moments that you will not forget."
Despite Mortara having taken five wins and three podiums to three wins and three podiums for Wittmann, the latter's consistent points scoring run meant he was able to edge out his rival by a mere four points in the end.
"Edo did a great job this year," Wittmann said. "We have known each other since Formula 3 and we respect each other.
"He kept the championship open until the end. In the end, I won. Perhaps because I was more consistent. That was my great plus.
"It is important to take the points on the weekends that do not work out well. You have to keep your cool. I can attack, but I can also soft-pedal."
Future lies in DTM
When asked about his future, Wittmann was certain that he intends to continue in the German touring car championship and that Formula 1 is not on his radar.
"People who know me, know: I feel comfortable in DTM. This is logical when you have success," he said.
"People often ask me about F1. It doesn't always have to be F1. I think the level of the drivers in DTM is higher than in F1.
"If I also look at the current situation with the pay drivers, it is difficult. This is a pity for young talents as well as for the sport."
Additional reporting by Stefan Ehlen
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