The precise details of the form of BMW’s return to the series since it last raced in 1992 are still unclear, particularly given their return is provided “certain basic requirements” it proposes are agreed to by the DTM.  However, if the car looks anything like Jon Sibal’s fantastic 3D impression of how a DTM BMW may appear based on their ALMS GT2, then we’re all for their return.

Speaking of this news, BMW motorsport boss Dr. Mario Theissen said:

The planned return to the DTM is an exciting challenge for our team.  Over the coming months we will be making all the necessary technical preparations that should allow us to be competitive right from the start should we join the series in 2012.

The decision to join the series has also been welcomed by soon their rivals Audi and Mercedes.  Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich said:

On behalf of Audi I want to say right now: ‘Welcome to DTM.’  We look forward to the new competitors from Munich who most definitely will prove to be extremely competitive.  I’m convinced that the squad will learn quickly to demonstrate its competitiveness within a short period of time.

It would be a big boost to the DTM if another manufacturer joined, both from a fans point of view to have more cars on circuit and as an extra reason to stir up further competition between the teams.  We’re sure BMW will be hoping to a return of the halcyon days of the early 1990s with its successful E30 M3.

Having departed F1 last year, it appears BMW is now freer to pursue other racing activities, as shown by its M3 GT2 it campaigns in ALMS and also its successful WTCC programme.  BMW are developing a new 1.6L four-cylinder turbo for 2011, so one would imagine they have no plans to leave this series 12 months after an intensive and expensive R&D period.  Busy times ahead at BMW.

As we learn more about BMW’s DTM plans we’ll bring it to you here on SkiddMark.

Photo credit – Jon Sibal.  Car is a 3D render based on the BMW E92 M3 GT2 ALMS.

This year’s card depicts Max Mosley, BMW’s Mario Theissen and Toyota’s John Howett setting sail away in a yacht, while the remaining team bosses wave happily from the harbour.

Meanwhile disgraced ex-Renault team boss Flavio Briatore aboard a pirate boat – takes aim at the yacht with a rocket-launcher, whilst several sharks circle around expectantly.

In the distance Bernie sits at a lifeguard’s station looking on, presumably waiting to save the day… again!

Mosley and Briatore have been trading public insults over the past few weeks whilst Flavio awaits his verdict from the French appeal courts, due on January 5th. Mosley gave Briatore a lifetime ban for his part in the Singapore Grand Prix race-fixing scandal, before Mosley stepped down from his role as FIA President, handing the reigns to ex-Ferrari CEO Jean Todt.

Click to view full image

“I will be responsible for the motor sport activities of BMW in the future. Peter Sauber now takes control and will lead the (F1) team. For me it is an end and a new era (for Sauber) begins.” said Theissen.

The FIA has yet to confirm if the Hinwil-based team has an entry for the 2010 Formula One season, which was a condition laid down by BMW in order for the buyout to be completed. BMW initially agreed the sale of its Sauber F1 Team in the summer to Swiss foundation Qadbak, however allegations of fraudulent behaviour by a senior member of the foundation made the German marque reconsider its buyout plans for the future.

So what next for Theissen?

BMW announced on Friday that it would be dramatically scaling back it’s activities in the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) for 2010, but we are hearing that a switch towards endurance racing might well be on the cards, especially with the latest M3 GTS road car arriving next spring.