DTM needs to be included in F1 superlicence system - Coulthard
The DTM warrants a presence on the FIA's Formula 1 superlicence framework, according to ex-F1 and DTM driver David Coulthard
The German series does not appear on the points system being implemented for 2016, and its three manufacturers wrote to the FIA asking for a rethink.
Paul di Resta moved to F1 with Force India after winning the 2010 DTM title for Mercedes, while Pascal Wehrlein has a dual role for the manufacturer across both categories.
In the week before he won his second DTM race at the Norisring, Mercedes F1 reserve Wehrlein topped the first day of F1's in-season test at the Red Bull Ring, and drove with Force India the following day.
He was joined on track on Wednesday by reigning DTM champion Marco Wittmann, testing with Toro Rosso as a reward from BMW.
Coulthard raced in the DTM with Mercedes after retiring from F1, and says its professionalism aids driver development.
"I think DTM is a super-professional organisation, like Formula 1, in terms of the set-up, the media that are attracted to it, the sponsors, so it's a step above all of the other formulas," he said.
"Of course, it's a touring car, so some people may go 'what's the relevance of that to a single-seater?', but it's not an easy touring car to drive.
"It's got the speed of a Formula 3 car with the downforce it has, so I think it should be looked upon as a different way.
"A championship that doesn't exist yet, Formula 2, has a greater focus than existing formulas.
"That, to me - and yes, the FIA needs to have vision for what that formula will stand for - does really take the piss out of other championships that are there operating successfully and professionally.
"It's making sure that drivers are worldly prepared, because a talent is a talent.
"If you can drive well, you're good enough at the point in which you're physically able to drive the car.
"But that's only part of the story. You still have to learn the race craft and how to work within an organisation."
COULTHARD LAUDS 'EXCEPTIONAL' WEHRLEIN
Wehrlein is the public face of the DTM's superlicence debate.
The 20-year-old made his debut in the series in 2013, and has made numerous F1 testing appearances since being named as Mercedes' reserve last September.
"He's one of those exceptional drivers, there's a reason why he's being so supported because something stands out," Coulthard said.
"There's no doubt he'll end up in Formula 1 and I don't doubt that he'll end up having a successful career, because he's got something.
"They're all good drivers, but it's not about finding good drivers, it's about finding exceptional drivers and I think he's one of those guys."
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