Gilles Magnus is set to embark on an exciting new challenge in 2025 after agreeing a deal with Comtoyou Racing to drive an Aston Martin Vantage GT3 in DTM.
Joining Fewkes Sport Management’s talented driver portfolio last year, the Belgian racer is poised to write the latest chapter of his impressive career this coming season in the prestigious German championship, which is reserved for GT3 machinery.
Piloting the world-famous ‘007’ entry in the ultra-competitive series, Magnus will be partnered at the team – which is an official partner of Aston Martin Racing and also making its DTM debut – alongside his teammate, Nicolas Baert.
Magnus heads into his maiden DTM campaign off the back of a sensational 2024 which saw him clinch the Gold Endurance Cup title in the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS and also triumph in the Dubai 24 Hour and Gulf 12 Hour races.
Despite competing in a brand-new category, Magnus is no stranger to Comtoyou Racing either, after spending a number of years representing the team as a factory Audi Sport driver in the FIA World Touring Car Cup and GT World Challenge Europe.
Gilles Magnus: “It is a dream come true to be competing in DTM; I watched the championship when I was growing up and since I started racing it has been something I’ve always had my eye on.
“We all know that the level in DTM is very high and with it being a new venture for both myself and the team, this season will be about growing and learning. That being said, I hope there will be opportunities for us to show what we’re capable of.
“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone at Comtoyou Racing and Aston Martin for this fantastic opportunity. It’s going to be a year to remember and I’m looking forward to learning, progressing and hopefully enjoying some highlights along the way.”
Will Fewkes, FSM Founder: “Everyone at FSM is delighted for Gilles and we’re all excited to see how this partnership with Comtoyou Racing and Aston Martin Racing flourishes over the coming season.
“Gilles had an incredible 2024 season and we feel that the development he’s made over the past year is only going to serve him well in DTM. He’s an incredible talent and with an established team behind him. I am confident that he can make his mark.”
Rob Huff, FSM Performance Pathway Director: “Since the moment I began racing against Gilles I knew he was destined to go far in the sport and this move to the DTM underlines why he is so highly thought of.
“The experience of racing GT3 machinery last year is going to ensure that he gets a handle on the Vantage quickly and his ability to race at the highest of levels means that he’s going to be one to watch in DTM this year.”
François Verbist, Comtoyou Racing Director: “We’re not giving up on our commitment to GT World Challenge Europe, Sprint and Endurance as well as our ‘national’ event – the 24 Hours of Spa. But we wanted to evolve into another format of events; short, dense, with one driver per car.
“This is a complementary approach to our endurance activity. The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 is now mature and with technical work adapted to the DTM, the current motivation of our team and that of our partners. I have a positive feeling, while remaining humble and modest.”
The 2025 DTM season begins at the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben on April 26-27.