A Viking in the DTM: Thiim, Aston Martin and the big dream

• Dane set to start in the DTM with Aston Martin for the first time
• Thiim on his special relationship with the fans and the 2026 season

Munich. Nicki Thiim is one of the most popular drivers in the DTM. This year, the Dane will do battle at the wheel of an Aston Martin for Belgian outfit Comtoyou Racing for the first time. Speaking in an interview, the two-time world endurance champion discusses his passion for the cult British brand, his role as a crowd favourite, and his goals for the season.

You will be lining up with Aston Martin for the first time in the DTM. What does that mean to you?
I have been driving for Aston Martin for more than ten years. This is my family! As a kid - when my father used to race in the series - and as a racing driver, the DTM has always been my biggest dream. In starting together with Aston Martin this year, I am finally going to achieve one of my big ambitions. I am really excited.

Aston Martin is a real cult brand. What makes it so appealing?
For me, Aston Martin is the ultimate brand when it comes to super sports cars. I like the timeless approach to detail, both in the design of the cars and their interiors. Everything is very elegant and stylish.

What is so special about the Vantage GT3?
After two years "undercover" with another manufacturer, I will finally be racing in the DTM in a car that I know extremely well. I spend almost every weekend in the Vantage GT3 and no longer have to switch between two different sports cars. This is a totally new situation for me, from which I really expect to benefit. With its breathtaking V8 turbo engine and unique look, Aston Martin both looks and sounds great, making it a great addition to the DTM.

The start number "007" is a nod to secret agent James Bond. Do you feel like an action hero?
It is a great idea to line up with the legendary "007" on an Aston Martin. It is a real privilege to have this number. However, I do not feel like a superhero. I am a Viking, who loves to beat people on the racetrack.

Fans love you and your character. Why do you think that is?
It is important to give something back to the people who invest their time and money to cheers us on when we go racing. As a racing driver, you meet many special fans and characters at the circuits. It is great fun to hear their stories and sense their passion for the sport. That helps me keep my feet on the ground. We are all just people who share the same passion.

What are your goals for the season and, as a driver, which races are you particularly looking forward to?
It is just fantastic to be racing in the DTM again. For me, it is the best racing series in the world. The fact that I can now finally line up in the DTM with Aston Martin makes the coming season a very special one. We have big dreams and grand ambitions! One absolute highlight is the Norisring, with which I obviously have a special association. It was against that unique backdrop that I claimed my only DTM victory to date. That circuit will always have a special place in my heart.