Sheldon van der Linde

2019.01.21

Van der Linde: “The DTM has always been a dream of mine.”

In 2019, Sheldon van der Linde will be the first South African driver to compete in the DTM. In this interview, the new BMW works driver talks about his great DTM dream, expectations for his maiden season and the continuation of a family tradition.

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Sheldon, how does it feel to be a BMW DTM driver?

Sheldon van der Linde: “It feels quite unreal at the moment I have to say. I think by the time I’m standing at the grid in Hockenheim it will feel more real. Before that there is a lot of preparation that has to be done. The DTM has always been a dream of mine. To reach that goal is such a relief and an achievement that brings motivation. And for sure I’m very excited to join the BMW family as well.”

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Sheldon van der Linde

What has been your connection to BMW in the past?

Van der Linde: “My dad has been driving for BMW in South Africa for many years as a works driver as well. That is a very cool connection. It feels fantastic to continue the family tradition in that way and I’m very excited to keep the name ‘van der Linde’ high in the BMW family.”

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Sheldon van der Linde

What are your expectations for your maiden DTM season?

Van der Linde: “Of course it is not going to be easy at all. It’s the best touring car championship in the world for a reason. It’s all the best drivers in one series. It’s not going to be easy and I will have a lot to learn, especially coming from GT3. But I know I have the right team around me to support me in that way to really get the best out of the complete package, so I’m very confident that we can do a good job. Like I said, there are a lot of things that need to be done, and I’m really looking forward to Hockenheim in May.”

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