Paul di Resta? Christian Albers? Does anyone know what they have in common..... yep, they both graduated into Formula 1 after participating in DTM, and looking at this years field of drivers, there's a few more who could be looking to join them.
The DTM is a touring car series similar to the WTCC and V8 Supercars, only that it is based in Germany, with about half of the races taking place in the country. This year marks the return of BMW as a manufacturer, a much needed arrival, as the series had gone a little stale with only Audi and Mercedes. BMW have been extremely active in the driver market, picking up current champion Martin Tomczyk and regular winner Bruno Spengler. With the introduction of a new generation of spec cars, this is a great time for BMW to enter the series. Here are some of the drivers looking to make an impression this year:
Martin Tomczyk- Reigning champ who had an extremely impressive 2011 with 3 wins, becoming the first man to win the championship with an older spec car. Expect him to lose ground early on though, as BMW come to grips with the series.
Bruno Spengler- The series' nearly man, with two runner up spots and two third places his record in the Championship. He will be looking for that elusive Championship, but will be hindered by BMW's newness, much as Tomczyk will be.
Augusta Farfus and Andy Priaulx- Two men moving into DTM with BMW after success with the marque in the WTCC, both have good reputations and will be interesting to watch the two teammates compete.
Timo Scheider- Audi's German DTM darling, two time champion, who will be hoping to hit back after a winless 2011.
Mattias Ekstrom- The Swere is another two time champ in the Audi ranks, and starts every season as a favourite, especially after his run of three wins in the last four races propelled him to runner up last year.
Edoardo Mortara- Last season's best rookie with two third places, will be hoping to challenge for wins in the Audi this year.
Gary Paffett- McLaren tester and 2005 champion will be hoping for a better 2012 after missing out on a podium and stuttering in 7th in the championship last year for Mercedes.
Robert Wickens and Roberto Merhi- Highly rated Mercedes juniors couldn't find the cash to compete in GP2 this year and have been thrown a lifeline by Mercedes, they will surely make an impact.
The season starts in Hockenheim on the 29th April, be sure to tune in if you can...
. Nice to see BMW have filled their seats up for the season. Now just waiting on Audi and Mercedes to confirm their drivers then the season can well and truly start 
