DTM wins at Nürburgring: Van der Linde brothers fly SA flag high
Kelvin and Sheldon van der Linde are among the country's pride after taking victories in the German DTM.
News headlines haven’t been amiss with national pride and joy following the Springboks victory over Australia, and Dricus du Plessis emphatically winning over Israel Adesanya in the UFC ring. Both of those triumphs took place in the Land Down Under but on the other side of the world, Kelvin and Sheldon van der Linde made motorsport-obsessed South Africans proud after taking victories in the German DTM.
Kelvin, the elder sibling, showcased his prowess on Saturday by converting pole position into a commanding race win. The unpredictable rain conditions proved to be an ally, as he extended his lead over the chasing pack with each passing lap. Mirko Bortolotti in a Lamborghini and Mercedes’ Maro Engel completed the podium, while Sheldon, in his BMW M4 GT3, finished in the 13th position.
Sunday belonged to Sheldon, who defied the odds to secure his first DTM victory of the 2024 season. Starting from ninth on the grid, the 2022 champion executed a flawless start, seizing the lead and holding it until the checkered flag. Engel and BMW’s Marco Wittmann completed the podium. Kelvin, unfortunately, was involved in an early incident, dropping him to 12th, but he recovered to finish fourth, extending his championship lead.
Related: South African Sheldon van der Linde crowned DTM ’22 champion
The brothers’ exceptional performances have propelled them to the forefront of the DTM standings. Kelvin currently holds the championship lead with 140 points, while Sheldon is in fourth position with 100 points. The stage is set for an intense sibling rivalry when the series resumes at the Sachsenring in September.
Sheldon, reflecting on his unexpected victory, expressed genuine surprise. “I really didn’t expect to win from eighth on the grid or even make it onto the podium,” he admitted. His triumph was a testament to his skill and marked a strong start to the second half of the DTM season for Schubert Racing.
The Van der Linde brothers have undoubtedly established themselves as formidable forces in the DTM. Their Nürburgring dominance has solidified their reputation as championship contenders and added another chapter to the rich history of South African motorsport.
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