Former F1 driver Gerhard Berger has been appointed as the new chairman of ITR, the DTM's organising body.

Berger replaces DTM founder Hans Werner Aufrecht who has decided to step down from his role after three decades at the helm the Germany's premieres racing series.

A 10-time GRand Prix winner, the Austrian will be tasked with defining "a strategic course for a successful future," working in collaboration with the DTM board.

"I started my motor-racing career in touring-car racing and always followed DTM with a lot of interest,” Berger said on his new role.

"DTM is a top-class product with independent, powerful regulations, strong manufacturers, top sponsors, important international partnerships and many fans.

"This is a good starting point with great potential for the future. The first task I will focus on in the coming weeks is gaining a deeper insight into the details with the support of my colleagues.

"We will then use this strong basis for creating a joint strategy for the future."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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