The DTM has always been the ultimate survivor in motorsport—and now, the ADAC has thrown down a long-term guarantee that solidifies its future like never before.

At the season opener in Spielberg, just three and a half years after taking over the series from Gerhard Berger, the ADAC made one thing crystal clear: despite ongoing criticism of internal combustion engine motorsport, the club is in it for the long haul, with plans stretching well beyond 2030. "The ADAC's commitment to operating the DTM for the very long term is crucial," says ADAC Sport President Gerd Ennser.

"Four years is not a timeframe that really interests me. We need to talk about 40 years of DTM future—and everyone stands behind that. I can say that for the entire ADAC. Nobody doubts it or believes that we will eventually ask whether the DTM makes sense. It makes extreme sense."

Ennser also highlighted a growing realization across the organization: the DTM is vital to the ADAC's identity. As Europe's largest automobile club, the ADAC isn't just about roadside assistance—it's about entertainment. "The DTM is an extremely important tool to further expand that," he adds.

This commitment extends even through tough times—a bold stance in a motorsport world where many are questioning their involvement. "Even if difficult times come, the ADAC will stick with the DTM," Ennser promises. "We can make this promise for the long term."

In today's shifting landscape, where sustainability is a hot topic, the ADAC isn't ignoring the issue. The introduction of fully synthetic fuel a year ago was a "gamechanger," receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from series partners and team sponsors, despite the higher cost.

Ennser summed it up with a smile: "It's not just the pension that is safe, as a former Minister of Labor once said. The DTM is safer than a pension."