Gary Paffett “pleased” with podium result in Spielberg

Mercedes’ weekend at the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) had its fair share of highs and lows, but for ART Grand Prix’s Gary Paffett, it ended on the former.

The Suffolk-based driver has always shown how good he is in wet conditions, which played into his hands during race two at the Red Bull Ring.

“That was a very good race,” said the 2005 champion, who started from third place after a good qualifying session earlier in the day.

Paffett’s pace in the wet was extremely competitive, taking up to seventh tenths of a second out of the gap between himself and Ekström, as the pair fought for the lead.

However, the Brit had to settle for second, even having traded fastest lap times with the Swede: “It would, of course, have been even nicer to finish on top, but Mattias and I pushed each other.

“I got closer and closer to him and thought I’d catch him, but then he countered and so, it was obvious that it wasn’t going to be possible. It was a tough race in difficult conditions, but I’m pleased with the result.”

With Paffett having now secured his third podium of the year and the 35th of his career, the Brit now sits fifth in the drivers’ standings on 61 points, just 20 behind countryman Jamie Green.

“I’m pleased for Gary that he was able to drive a very good race and secure P2,” explained Mercedes AMG’s Head of DTM, Ulrich Fritz. “Basically, we were able to turn in a very strong performance during the whole weekend in Spielberg.