Jörg Müller: Not just another driver, filling out the field

• Former BMW works driver in line-up for Pixum Team Schubert
• First season in Germany for Müller in 17 years
• Müller to co-drive BMW Z4 with Max Sandritter

In the last few years, sports car ace Jörg Müller (43) has been a veritable motor racing globetrotter: the ex-Formula 1 test driver has raced for BMW all around the world – FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC), Intercontinental Le Mans Cup and American Le Mans Series (ALMS). This year, Müller will have a much shorter trip to many races. For the first time since 1996 when Müller was with BMW in the ADAC Super Tourenwagen Cup, the BMW driver will be in Germany for a complete season. This coming weekend (April 26th-28th), Müller, who now lives in Switzerland, will tackle the 2013 ADAC GT Masters season, starting in the etropolis Motorsport Arena Oschersleben, along with Max Sandritter (24, Germany) in a BMW Z4 GT3 prepared by local outfit, Pixum Team Schubert.

How did the drive in the ADAC GT Masters for Pixum Team Schubert come about?
Jörg Müller: “Well, just by coincidence, really. I met Max Sandritter’s manager by chance through a good friend that I’ve known for a long time. We talked about a possible drive in the ADAC GT Masters and that eventually led to a cockpit in the BMW Z4, about which I am very pleased.”

What were your initial impressions of the ADAC GT Masters after pre-season testing in Oschersleben?
“I’ve contested so many international events in recent years that it’s hard to comment on the motor racing scene in Germany, which is a bit unfortunate, I suppose. It’s not easy to form an opinion about the series, despite my experience of a race weekend at Oschersleben back in 2010. But of course, I’ve already had a good look at the list of entrants. The field is very strong and there are some very good names on the entry list.”

No one can tell you anything about the BMW Z4 that you will be driving in the ADAC GT Masters, since the Z4 is, so to speak, your ‘baby’.
“I helped develop the BMW Z4 and drove it on first roll-out and on all the tests. I know that car probably better than anyone else, even though latterly, I’ve usually lined up in the BMW M3 GT. However, I am delighted to now have a full season in the Z4 for the first time.”

How do you rate team-mate Max Sandritter?
“Max is a popular driver, earning his reputation by winning plenty of races in the Seat Leon Supercopa in recent years. I think we are a good combination. I hope I can still show Max one or two tricks, though. He’s no longer a young kid and has, of course, already developed his own style, but I think I can maybe help him a little. We get on very well.”

What are your aims and expectations this season?
“I’ve never competed in a championship just to fill the field. When I compete, I am out to win races and secure championship titles. This year won’t be any different. I’m lining up for an excellent team in a superb car, and me and Max Sandritter, we make a good team. So actually, it goes without saying; we aim to be winners.”