The DTM championship has introduced important changes in its regulations for the 2026 season, with the aim of improving competitiveness and excitement. In particular, the creation of a two-pool system for tire distribution among teams stands out, as well as the implementation of what is known as the ‘Rene Rast Rule’.
Just days before the start of the season in Spielberg, the new regulations have been published, with a special focus on tires designed exclusively for the DTM. These tires not only aim to improve lap times but also seek to better manage the limitations in the championship tests, as teams will have to return them to Pirelli after their use.
Two tire pools
Previously, it was contemplated that each team could have a large number of tires for the entire season. However, the organizers have opted for a two-pool system, which seeks stricter control over tire usage.
In races, the distribution will remain as in previous seasons: teams will receive four sets of new tires for the most demanding events, such as races in Spielberg, Hockenheim, Zandvoort, and Sachsenring. In other circuits like Lausitzring and Norisring, they will be assigned three sets.
Changes in tests and practice sessions
For limited tests and free practice sessions, tires will be managed in a current account system. Each vehicle will receive one set of new tires for each event. Even if a team does not participate in a test, they will be credited tires for official and private test days.
Teams will need to carefully manage the new tires, as excessive use at the beginning of the season may reduce their availability later on. Additionally, tires must be returned if more than five sets per vehicle are exceeded.
The ‘Rene Rast Rule’
One of the highlights of the new regulations is closing a regulatory loophole that allowed Schubert Motorsport to gain an advantage during Rene Rast’s victory at the Nurburgring. Now, it is prohibited for discarded tires to be reintroduced into the pool, thereby preventing teams from improperly benefiting during events.
With these new rules, the DTM seeks to ensure a fairer and more exciting competition while ensuring that timing and resource control are essential in the management of teams during the season.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
