DTM Launches “Behind the Grid” — A Behind-the-Scenes Documentary Series Inspired by Formula 1’s “Drive to Survive”

A dedicated camera crew follows Nicki Thiim at the Norisring as he makes his way from the podium to the mixed zone, where journalists are waiting. The Dane shows visible emotion during a race weekend that, with two victories, would mark his definitive breakthrough in the championship.

Only later does it become clear that these were film recordings for the DTM’s new TV and streaming documentary, “Behind the Grid.” Modeled after the Formula 1 Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” the show is designed to offer unique behind-the-scenes glimpses into the traditional racing series.

“The DTM boasts plenty of strong personalities and interesting characters,” says DTM managing director Claudia Wagner. “In ‘Behind the Grid,’ we want to reveal some unfamiliar aspects of these figures to the viewers.”

Where will “Behind the Grid” be shown?

The documentary series will be available free of charge on streaming provider Joyn, on ServusTV ON, on Red Bull TV, and for English-speaking audiences on the DTM’s official YouTube channel.

The first episode of “Behind the Grid” will be released in just a few days: the series premieres on Friday, 28 August 2026 at 8:00 p.m. (CEST). Following that, a new episode with a running time of approximately 20 minutes will be released every week until the season finale.

The aim is clear: just as Liberty Media has achieved with Formula 1, the DTM seeks to reach a mainstream audience beyond the traditional “petrolheads” through a compelling TV series featuring its own real-life characters.

What is the concept and who is behind it?

The focus centers on the 2026 DTM season: since the start of the season at the Red Bull Ring at the end of April, a camera crew from the German production company fahrwerkfilm — which already has experience with motorsport video productions for AMG and the Porsche Carrera Cup Germany — has been following two DTM drivers per race weekend.

According to official information, each episode follows “a specific narrative arc, sticking closely to the key figures. It is all about expectations, pressure situations, conflicts, decisions, teamwork, passion, setbacks, triumphs — and the sporting intensity of the DTM.”

The audience gains insight into moments such as drivers’ conversations on the shuttle bus on the way from the podium ceremony to the press conference, along with other private moments that are not normally accessible to the public.

Unvarnished Insights Designed to Provide Authenticity

“This format adds a crucial new component to our communication strategy for the DTM. We want to provide additional content for fans, while simultaneously making the series accessible to a wider public. That can only work with well-crafted stories, and the documentary series is the ideal format for this,” marketing expert Wagner is convinced of the chosen path.

She also expresses gratitude to the drivers, teams, and manufacturers for their support. “They really have been willing to provide some exclusive insights — which is exactly what makes ‘Behind the Grid’ so special,” the DTM managing director adds.

Rookie Finn Wiebelhaus filmed on the beach in Zandvoort for the new docuseries

Photo: ADAC Motorsport

Incidentally, the scenes were not approved in advance by those involved, which promises an additional layer of authenticity.

“During filming, we notice time and again just how much potential the DTM has if you do not just report on the results and racing action but tell the stories of the people behind all that,” explains fahrwerkfilm CEO Peter Linke, whose company is responsible for the production.

“The documentary format is particularly well suited to motorsport, as pressure, rivalry, teamwork, joy, and disappointment are palpable during every race weekend. We are delighted to be sharing this perspective with a larger audience.”

Broadcast Schedule for “Behind the Grid”:

Episode 1: 28 August 2026

Episode 2: 04 September 2026

Episode 3: 11 September 2026

Episode 4: 18 September 2026

Episode 5: 25 September 2026

Episode 6: 02 October 2026

Episode 7: 16 October 2026

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