A German professional racing driver, best known for his success in the FIA GT Championship, winning multiple titles and races. He's also a factory driver for BMW and has competed in top-tier endurance events.
Michael Bartels is a German racing driver extraordinaire, renowned for his unwavering dedication to the sport and an illustrious career spanning multiple championships. With a penchant for speed and a knack for adapting to diverse racing environments, Bartels has etched his name in the annals of motorsport history.
Born on March 8, 1968, Bartels' passion for racing was evident from a young age. He began his journey in karting, claiming the 1985 German karting championship title. This early success paved the way for his transition to Formula Ford 1600, where he secured the 1986 German championship.
Bartels' Progression to the German Formula Three Championship in 1988 and 1989 laid the foundation for his subsequent move to International Formula 3000 in 1990. His impressive performances in F3000 earned him a fourth-place finish in 1992, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the racing world.
In 1991, Bartels filled in for Johnny Herbert at Lotus, attempting to qualify for four Grands Prix. Although he failed to qualify, this experience marked a significant milestone in his career. Bartels then shifted his focus to the DTM, competing from 1994 to 1996, before the series was revived in 2000.
During the DTM's hiatus, Bartels participated in the Super Tourenwagen Cup from 1997 to 1999. His crowning achievement came in 2000, when he won the 24 Hours Nürburgring in a works Porsche 911 GT3, repeating this feat in 2001 with a Chrysler Viper GTSR.
In 2004, Bartels joined Konrad Motorsport to compete in the FIA GT Championship. The following year, he founded his own team, Bartels Motor Sport, and partnered with Vitaphone Racing to campaign a Maserati MC12. This collaboration yielded three championship titles (2006, 2008, and 2009) alongside co-driver Andrea Bertolini.
Bartels' impressive résumé also includes three Spa 24 Hours victories (2005, 2006, and 2008). His achievements have cemented his status as one of the most successful German racing drivers of his generation.
Michael Bartels' enduring passion for racing has driven him to excel in various championships, earning him a special place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
61 Years Old
A German racing driver who won the DTM championship five times and had a successful career in touring cars, earning him the nickname "The Diplomat".
59 Years Old
Italian race car driver with multiple touring car championships, including three WTCC titles. Known for his impressive racing skills and consistency on the track.
