Paul di Resta returns to the DTM with Mercedes after losing F1 drive

The 2010 DTM champion was left without an F1 drive after Force India opted for the financially-supported Perez to partner Nico Hulkenberg.

But di Resta has been able to strike a deal with Mercedes to return to its DTM fold, and has joined the manufacturer for the start of its pre-season testing programme at the Algarve circuit this week.

"I'm happy to be coming back to the DTM - things have moved on here since 2010," di Resta told AUTOSPORT.

"I loved my time here before and I have great respect for it, and hopefully I will only grow fonder of it.

"Racing is my job, but I've got to enjoy my racing, and coming back here is where I am going to enjoy it most."

Di Resta added that he expects racing in DTM to pose different challenges to F1, as he hopes to be competing for race wins and the championship.

"Now I've got the challenge of being back in DTM and winning races with a frontline team again," he said.

"I've not stood on the podium for three years, although I was close a few times in F1.

"I'm coming in with the goal of winning the first race. I don't really want to give myself time to settle in.

"Maybe it will take time, but certainly when I signed the contract I signed it to go out and win the championship.

"I was the last person to win a championship here for Mercedes and bringing the title back is one of the key reasons Mercedes has brought me here."

DI RESTA'S DTM CAREER
2007-2010

Races: 42
Wins: 6
Poles: 6
Podiums: 21
Fastest laps: 7
Champion: 2010