Thomas Schoffler endured a spectacular season in 2013. At his maiden run in the GTSPRINT INTERNATIONAL SERIES, the Singen-born 19-year-old driver, cruised to title in the closing round of the season at Vallelunga.In addition to the overall honours, the German also captured the GTS3 crown, driving an Audi R8 LMS racer fielded by Audi MTM. Ending up 25 points back was the Autorlando Porsche 997 of Glauco Solieri.
Schoffler took three wins, one at Slovakia Ring and two at Imola, together with Johan Kristoffersson, but it was also consistency to pay off for him with six podium finishes. In addition to the Swede, the 2012 SUPERSTARS Champion, he relied on the experience of Laurens Vanthoor, Filipe Albuquerque, Oliver Jarvis, Antii Buri and Oliver Mayer.
How does it feel to win an International series like GTSPRINT at 19?
It’s amazing. I was thrilled to lift the trophy in front of the crowd at Vallelunga. I reckon that it’s been a tough job, but we had lots of consistency and that eventually paid off. I really want to thank Audi MTM, as they always believed in me, and all my sponsor that were key in the pursuit of this result.
There has been a moment this season when you thought you couldn’t make it?
Yes, definitely. In Slovakia we faced a difficult time in Race 2. But our strength was to keep fighting and we were rewarded for our efforts. I think it’s normal to hit troubled waters in a 16-race season, like in GTSPRINT.
What has been your favourite track this season?
Imola, no doubt about that. We won both races with my friend Johan (Kristoffersson). We dominated the weekend and the R8 was flying there. In Imola I felt that the title was really close.And in terms of your opponents, who impressed you the most?Definitely Glauco Solier and his Porsche, but the Ferrari of Andii Kruglyk and Raffaele Giammaria was always there. It’s also been exciting to cross swords with two brands and types of cars that were so different compared to ours.
How do you plan to spend your offseason?
I go to the gym a lot to stay in shape and I’m back studying at the university. I’m also learning Italian. I had a great time with the series’ promoters and fans and I’ve been caught by their enthusiasm!
