Apart from Edoardo Mortara taking another successive podium at Misano World Circuit in the second ever DTM night race, Italy had another reason for celebrations, as Alex Zanardi also chose a great strategy call to help his take a well-deserved fifth place.
The 51-year-old, who last raced at the Italian GT championship finale in 2016, was grateful towards BMW Motorsport’s efforts to help him take partt as a guest entrant this past weekend.
“They always believed that I could do it,” said Zanardi, who adapted very well to the controls of his specially-built M4 DTM.
“This trust is a great gift – and I am happy that I was able to vindicate that.”
The Bologna-born driver was very aware that even being able to compete with such a highly-skilled field, it was an experience he will never soon forget.
“Fifth place is the payoff for the whole weekend. I am very happy with this result and at my age, I won’t get too many more opportunities to celebrate racing successes like this.”
His sincerity was also very humbling, especially with the great welcome he has received from the entire paddock and the supporters that came to Misano World Circuit to see him race.
“Many thanks to the DTM family too, for welcoming me with open arms. I will always have a place in my heart for this weekend. It has taken me 51 years to experience it – but at least I got that chance.”