A steering wheel in the DTM series for the Quebecer Mikaël Grenier
Hired by the Mercedes manufacturer as an official driver last week, Mikaël Grenier was recruited by his new employer to compete in the German DTM touring car championship in 2022.
He thus becomes the second Quebecer in history to win such a prestigious steering wheel after Bruno Spengler, who began his career in the DTM with Mercedes in 2007.
Grenier will participate in all stages of the series which will take place from April 29 to 1er May at the Portimão circuit in southern Portugal. Stopovers are also planned on famous tracks such as Spa-Francorchamps, Nürburgring and Imola.
Photo courtesy, Mercedes
« It’s a new challenge in my career and I’m very grateful to Mercedes, » said the man who is currently in Dubai. The DTM is a very tough championship, which over the years has brought together talented drivers. I can’t wait to start this new experience. »
Just last year, Alex Albon, a member of the Red Bull industry, signed up for the DTM after a spell in Formula 1. The Thai will make his return to F1 next year as a starting driver. Team Williams alongside Canadian Nicholas Latifi.
Other renowned drivers, including Esteban Ocon, Paul di Resta, Ralf Schumacher, Mika Hakkinen and in particular Jean Alesi have also driven in the DTM during their motor racing careers.
As for Spengler, after seven seasons (2005 to 2011) at Mercedes, he accepted BMW’s offer in 2012 and, in his first year with his new formation, he was crowned champion of the DTM series.
Photo courtesy, Mercedes
Busy schedule
Grenier, originally from the Quebec region, is having a particularly busy and very productive start to the year.
In recent weeks, he has competed in endurance events not only in Dubai, but also in Abu Dhabi and South Africa. In January, he took part in the 24 Hours of Daytona, Florida.
He is also entered in 2022 in the IMSA American Championship for the Winward Racing team aboard a Mercedes.
After a remarkable debut in karting in 1999, Grenier, 29, studied single-seaters (Formula BMW and Indy Lights), before redirecting his career towards touring cars and particularly endurance racing.
DTM series schedule in 2022
April 29 to 1er may – Portimao, Portugal
May 20 to 22 – Lausitzring, Germany
June 17 to 19 – Imola, Italy
July 1 to 3 – Norisring, Germany
August 26 to 28 – Nuerburgring, Germany
September 9 to 11 – Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium
September 23 to 25 – Red Bull Ring, Austria
October 7 to 9 – Hockenheim, Germany
