Class win in 24 Hour race

On the weekend from 22 to 25 May 2008, it was time again for this year’s edition of the ADAC Zurich 24 hour race at the Nürburgring, the 36th overall. On the 25.35 km track, the 219 teams at the start as well as some 200,000 spectators saw thrilling motorsport. I don’t know any other motor race that enjoys such a fantastic atmosphere. This time again, the Nürburgring simply was a huge party.

As in 2007, I teamed up with Thomas Haider, Rainer Kutsch and Marc Hiltscher in a BMW 330d. I feel very comfortable in Thomas Haider’s team. There is a familiar mood combined with a high degree of professionalism. Our car had been prepared perfectly and it did run like a clockwork. Apart from a wheel bolt that broke during a tyre change on Sunday afternoon which then had to be replaced, only the standard service work of refuelling and changing tyres as well as brake pads had to be carried out. 

The excellent and united team effort was awarded with a class win.

In 2007, torrential rain meant that the race had to be interrupted at night for several hours. This year, we had rain again but fortunately it was less severe. Lapping in the rain at night is an additional challenge for us drivers owing to the bad visibility in those conditions.

It was an honour to drive the final stint in the race. By chance, I happened to be crossing the line with the group of the winners, so I experienced the fantastic atmosphere from a very close perspective. 

I want to thank all team members and fans for their great support.