Jake Dennis and his rise into Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters

by Robert Jones

ASTON Martin’s young star Jake Dennis hopes to make an immediate impact on this year’s DTM championship, as he joins Paul Di Resta, Ferdinand Hansburg and Daniel Juncadella in the R-Motorsport team. 

The 23 year old Brit has a vast amount of racing experience and 2019 is another chance to showcase that talent through the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters series.

Dennis has competed in championships all over the world such as the GP3 series, FIA Formula 3 European championship, Blancpain GT3 series Endurance Cup and the 24H Le Mans race.

Dennis is once again competing in the GT3 series this season, along with his commitment to DTM.

“Our goals are like any other team. To be fighting for podiums and wins during our debut season. It would be great to be top rookie but it doesn’t really count for anything.”

“The past few years I’ve been jumping in between series and championships and I feel it’s really developed me as a driver on being able to adapt quickly. There’s a big difference to GT3 and DTM, but I feel like I can adapt quickly and it shouldn’t be a problem throughout the season.”

Dennis is the Red Bull F1 simulator development driver and due to being a part of the Red Bull program, he was given the opportunity last year to test the 2018 Red Bull in Barcelona and Hungary in what he described as “out of the blue”.

DTM and Formula one have very close ties, with drivers having often appeared in both championships. The most common theme has been the transition of drivers leaving Formula one for the German series.

It has also shown to be a stepping stone into Formula one, as Pascal Wherlein became the 2015 DTM champion before getting his opportunity with Manor and then Sauber. This could be a potential outcome for Dennis especially if he can hit the ground running.

For Dennis racing with the new R-Motorsport team is nothing new, as he competes for them in the GT3 championship too. Having a level of familiarity with the team is something that could prove very positive going into the season in both series.

The level in DTM is exceptionally high and for rookies adapting and getting results right away is vital. This means testing and preparation is very important, and speaking with Dennis he knows this could be a good launching pad for what is to come.

“Testing has proved positive so far, I think the Audi’s are really strong but I’m hoping we can optimize the package we have at Hockenheim and try to score points on our debut weekend.

Coming in as a rookie it’s going to be difficult when you go up against drivers who have 10+ years’ experience. But rookies have proved to be competitive directly so I hope to do the same.”