Nurburgring Nordschleife WTCC appearance for Sabine Schmitz

Schmitz, who gained fame through various television appearances, is a veteran of the Nordschleife, having twice won the circuit's 24-hour race, and running passenger laps for guests.

The 45-year-old will make her WTCC debut with the Munnich Motorsport squad in a Chevrolet Cruze, and she revealed that she had hoped to compete in a round before the May 16 event to acclimatise to the series.

"I am really happy that I have the opportunity to take part in the WTCC," Schmitz said.

"I could have entered the championship a race earlier, but sadly it didn't work with my agenda.

"But the WTCC test day on the Nordschleife on April 28 will be very important and good for my preparation."

Schmitz believes that her knowledge of the track is unlikely to be a major advantage over the WTCC regulars, although that could change if it rains.

"I will stay realistic with my goals for the races," she said.

"There are some very good drivers on the grid and even if some of them don't know the Nordschleife very well, they are the best touring car drivers in the world.

"Maybe the weather will be on my side - I love to drive on the Nordschleife when it's raining and we get plenty of rain there."

WTCC general manager Francois Ribeiro added: "The Nurburgring Nordschleife will be a peak event in the season, the race all our drivers want to win.

"While Sabine doesn't have experience of driving her Chevrolet, her racing background and intimate knowledge of the track will mean there's no reason she can't challenge the WTCC drivers."