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Red Bull pairs with AF Corse/Ferrari in DTM; Mercedes F1 has launch date

F1, Mercedes, DTM, Red Bull, Ferrari

Graphic rendering of the Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020 to be driven by Alex Albon and Nick Cassidy in the 2021 DTM series. // Red Bull Media House // SI202102020014 // Usage for editorial use only //

Red Bull revealed its full plans for the 2021 DTM season where they have partnered with AF Corse to run two Ferrari cars with three drivers, as Mercedes F1 reveals launch date.

Last month, Red Bull announced Alexander Albon and Liam Lawson as the two drivers to enter the new GT-backed DTM series in 2021, where the former will run in select events alongside his F1 reserve role, while the latter is to compete full-time alongside his F2 programme with Hitech GP.

The teammate of Albon has now been confirmed by Red Bull, with Super Formula and Super GT champion Nick Cassidy joining him alongside his Formula E programme with Envision Virgin Racing. The company also announced a partnership with AF Corse to run two Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020.

Albon and Cassidy will drive the AlphaTauri-liveried car, whereas Lawson will be in the Red Bull traditional colour. The division of the races the Thai and the Kiwi will take part in hasn’t been informed but it should be as per the F1 and Formula E calendar and whoever is free.

“DTM is a great series with highly talented drivers in the field and exciting racing,” said Albon. “I’ve only driven a ‘tin top’ once back in 2015 when I was nominated for the Autosport BRDC Young Driver award, and they’re really different to single seaters.

“There’s a lot less downforce and the tires are very different, so it requires a different kind of driving style. It will take a bit of time to get used to, but I’m looking forward to a new racing challenge when I’m available outside of my existing F1 commitments.”

Meanwhile, Lawson added: “GT racing is going to be very new to me. I am super excited for this opportunity in such a high-level series with world class drivers, and to team up with someone who has top experience like Alex. I’m also super excited to drive the Ferrari.”

Red Bull with AF Corse Ferrari are the first entrants in the revamped DTM series, something which Gerhard Berger is working upon, ever since the traditional touring cars reign came to an end in 2020. “Both Red Bull and Ferrari are leading global players that represent absolute success in the world of motorsports and beyond,” he said.

“We are very delighted to unite these two top brands in a unique project in the DTM, where they will join forces in the effort to win the prestigious championship. The unprecedented collaboration of the three high-class drivers is particularly promising: Formula 1 driver and podium finisher Alex Albon, GT professional and multiple race-winner Nick Cassidy and young talent Liam Lawson in one team – it is the perfect mix, which will keep the excitement level high in the upcoming DTM season.”

At the same time, AF Corse team boss, Amato Ferrari added: “This challenge started thanks to Gerhard Berger, the idea is his. In a short time, we have reached the agreement to work with Red Bull with great enthusiasm. We have just one ambition: victory. Considering the brands involved, all the requirements are there to aspire to be successful.”

Graphic rendering of the Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020 to be driven by Liam Lawson in the 2021 DTM series. // Red Bull Media House // SI202102020012 // Usage for editorial use only //

In other news, Mercedes revealed its launch date of the 2021 F1 car, W12, for March 2. It becomes the third outfit to release a launch date after Alfa Romeo and McLaren. It is the second to have a March slot after Aston Martin informed about its intention to launch then.

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