The rivalry between Ben Green (BMW, FK Performance Motorsport) and William Tregurtha (BMW, FK Performance Motorsport) has dominated the DTM Trophy this season (Mercedes-AMG, CV Performance Group). While Green won the first race of the season in Monza, newcomer Tregurtha had to wait until the fourth race at the Lausitzring to win his first race in the GT series. The two Brits were able to pull away from the field as the season went by. Green had built a 21-point lead in the Red Bull Ring before the midway point.
"It was an incredible battle with Will, right from the word go. We took no prisoners and pushed each other. However, it was always fair out on the track," says the newly-crowned DTM Trophy champion.
However, throughout the second part of the season, that lead shrank. Tregurtha was a steady performer on the Hankook race tyre, finishing on the podium on a regular basis to gain huge points. At the penultimate round in Hockenheim, the championship lead changed hands. Green, who started on pole, won the Saturday race but received a time penalty and was dropped to the ninth position. As a result, he was relegated to a second position at the table, behind his colleague.
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"When I lost a lot of points as a result of a penalty after race one in Hockenheim, which I won clearly, I did think for a moment that perhaps it was simply not meant to be. However, I then focused on our strengths, the great team, the strong and fast car, and the Hankook race tyres. I won the Sunday race from pole position and regained the lead in the championship," says the 23-year-old.
At the Norisring for the season finale, the Brit kept his calm. He finally became the DTM Trophy Champion with a second-place finish and a win in the final race, where he pulled off a sensational overtaking manoeuvre to past William Tregurtha and grab the lead.
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"Winning the title in the DTM Trophy in the final race is fantastic. We gave it everything and were rewarded for our efforts. The Hankook race tires really helped me all season. I know them from last year, so I know how you need to manage the tyres to get the best out of them. They are simply perfect for my driving style. They always give me clear feedback so that I know how to react in every situation. I was able to push hard in qualifying on the Hankook race tyres. In the race, they were fast, reliable and extremely consistent. And we did not have a single puncture."
The Brit is still not certain where he will be racing next season. His goal is to line up in the same environment, only one level higher. Ben Green: "My dream is to drive in the DTM next year. My team and I will work hard to make that possible."
Manfred Sandbichler, Hankook Motorsport Director Europe: "Congratulations to Ben Green on the championship and a fantastic performance. All the competitors in the DTM Trophy have produced thrilling motorsport all season. The concept of the DTM Trophy - to offer a platform for young drivers, gentlemen drivers and professionals - has been a great success. Hankook is proud to support this GT series as exclusive tyre partner with the Ventus Race."
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