Bortolotti Focuses on Performance, not Self-Blame, Amidst Challenging DTM season
As the DTM championship enters its crucial phase, defending champion Mirko Bortolotti finds himself in a challenging position. Currently 14th in the standings with onyl 14 points, the driver of the Abbot Sportsline Lamborghini trails leader Lucas Auer by 15 points heading into the Spielberg round (September 12th-14th). Despite a tough stretch with only four points earned across the last three German DTM races,Bortolotti remains focused on maximizing performance and isn’t dwelling on personal shortcomings.
“This year is the best proof that nothing falls from the trees in motorsport,but everything is extremely hard work. And it shows how high the value of a title and a vice title in the years before. It has become clear to me that nothing should be taken for granted,” Bortolotti explained. He emphasizes a clear understanding of his own capabilities, but attributes his current struggles to external factors.
Bortolotti points to insufficient preparation following a brand change as a key issue. “We had a preparation that does not meet what you need when changing a brand as a team.Two test days are not enough to perform. Especially if you drive against teams that are on the road every weekend with the same Pirelli tires.” He further highlighted the restrictive DTM regulations limiting teams to only five test days per season,making it “almost impossible to close this gap.”
Looking ahead to Spielberg, a track he acknowledges presents unique challenges, Bortolotti remains determined. “For me there will also be a hundred percent in the next four races.” He recognizes the disadvantage his team faces, stating, “We have no tests here, others do. So we will have to jump into the cold water again,with poorer preparation than the direct competition.”
The “Italo-Wiener,” as he’s known, and son of a prominent Viennese ice hockey family, is known for his directness. “If I have something to say, I say it. This is my greatest characteristic because honesty is significant to me. I go through life,” Bortolotti stated. While acknowledging he worries about important matters, he also admits to a tendency to overthink, adding, “I am also very good at worrying about completely irrelevant stuff at all.that would unnecessarily rob me of energy.”
Bortolotti believes the Red Bull Ring’s unpredictable nature could offer opportunities. “The Red Bull Ring is good for surprises. Let’s see what the weather does and what external factors play a role here… You shouldn’t always look at the result, but have to analyze why things have happened.” He is focused on understanding the reasons behind his performance and maximizing potential,rather than assigning blame.
