ABT Sportsline recently announced a significant change in their racing roster, marking the end of their partnership with Kelvin van der Linde. This split comes ahead of his expected transition to BMW, where he aims to join forces with his younger brother, Sheldon van der Linde, the 2022 DTM champion. Over the course of four years in the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters), Kelvin emerged as a formidable competitor, boasting eight race victories and playing a pivotal role in the team’s achievements, including his first ADAC GT Masters title in 2014. The recent announcement signals a strategic pivot for ABT as they prepare to embrace Lamborghini in the championship from 2025 while bidding farewell to Audi.
Kelvin van der Linde’s relationship with ABT has been one filled with remarkable accomplishments. Starting as a promising young talent, he developed into one of the standout figures in the series. His journey was not just about winning races; it was about growth, both personally and professionally. Reflecting on his time with ABT, he expressed deep gratitude, recognizing the integral role the team played in his development as a driver. He stated, “I came to Kempten as a young man and would probably have failed without the warmth and support of the people at Abt.” This sentiment underscores the emotional bond between the driver and the team, highlighting how supportive environments can foster talent.
Kelvin’s decision to switch manufacturers is not merely strategic; it also opens up new opportunities within his career. Following his participation in the World Endurance Championship with Lexus, rumors suggest that he might step into a prominent role either as a replacement driver or in a competitive position within the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup. However, as he prepares to embark on this new adventure, it seems he may step away from the DTM for the upcoming season. This deviation from the series raises questions about his long-term strategy and how he plans to carve out his niche in the evolving landscape of motorsport.
The departure of Kelvin van der Linde signifies a larger shift within ABT Sportsline. Team officials have articulated feelings of mixed emotions regarding this transition. Thomas Biermaier, the Managing Director, acknowledged the challenges of saying goodbye to a driver who came so close to capturing a DTM title in 2021. He expressed pride in the journey they shared, emphasizing that, despite not winning the championship, Kelvin will always remain part of the ABT family. This sentiment is echoed by Martin Tomczyk, ABT’s Motorsport Director, who underscored the importance of the team’s evolution. With a partnership with Lamborghini on the horizon, ABT aims to rejuvenate their lineup with factory support.
The partnership termination, while emotionally charged, is a necessary step for both Kelvin and ABT as they look to pursue new avenues of success. For Kelvin, moving to BMW allows him to compete at a high level alongside his brother, potentially solidifying a family legacy in motorsport. Meanwhile, ABT Sportsline is at a crossroads, as they prepare to forge a new identity with Lamborghini. The road ahead is filled with potential, but it will require both resolve and adaptability.
As 2025 approaches, the dynamics of the DTM will shift significantly. The integration into the Lamborghini fold represents an ambitious venture for ABT, aiming to compete at a higher echelon. For Kelvin, leaving behind the familiarity of ABT is not just a separation from a team but also an entry into a vibrant, competitive environment. As both parties embark on their respective journeys, the racing community watches intently to see how these changes unfold and influence the future landscape of motorsport.