Joachim Winkelhock German racing driver. Date of Birth: 24.10.1960 Country: Germany

1. Joachim Winkelhock: A German Racing Legend
2. Formula 1 and Début in Touring Cars
3. Success in Touring Car Championships
4. From STW to Le Mans
5. DTM Resurgence and Retirement

Joachim Winkelhock: A German Racing Legend

Joachim Winkelhock was born into a family of accomplished racing drivers, following in the footsteps of his older brother Manfred and younger brother Thomas. However, Manfred's tragic death in 1985 halted Joachim's racing career, which he only resumed in 1988 after winning the German Formula 3 Championship.

Formula 1 and Début in Touring Cars

In 1989, Winkelhock attempted to enter Formula 1 with the weak AGS team, but failed to qualify for the first seven races. This setback led him to switch to touring cars, joining BMW's DTM team. In 1991, he triumphed in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring behind the wheel of an M3.

Success in Touring Car Championships

After BMW's withdrawal from DTM, Winkelhock moved to the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and claimed the title in 1993. He earned the nickname "Smokin' Jo" due to his persistent cigarette habit. In 1994, he conquered the Asia-Pacific Touring Car Championship and the prestigious Macau Guia Race (which he would win again in 1998).

From STW to Le Mans

Returning to Germany, Winkelhock dominated the Super Tourenwagen Cup (STW) in 1995, adding another championship victory to his resume. That year, he also won the 24 Hours of Spa. In 1999, Winkelhock, alongside Yannick Dalmas and Pierluigi Martini, triumphed at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans in a BMW V12LMR prototype.

DTM Resurgence and Retirement

In 2000, Winkelhock returned to the revived DTM series with Opel and remained with them until 2003. He competed in 129 DTM races, securing four victories and ten podium finishes. After retiring from racing, he assumed the reins of the family business in Weidlingen.