Markus Gedlich, you and your team are launching the “Heroes Arena” at the GT Summer Series. What is the idea behind it?
MG: In most racing series, we see that the public appreciation for everyone involved in motorsport falls far short of what it should be. Whether drivers, mechanics, assistants, wives, or team bosses—every single person does a job that is characterized by passion and dedication far beyond the norm. For us, these are the true heroes of motorsport. To showcase them appropriately, we have created the Heroes Arena, a designated outdoor area right next to our race office, where the focus will be on these heroes of motorsport throughout the day.
What is supposed to happen there?
MG: The Heroes Arena will be a hub of constant action throughout the race weekend. There will always be something going on here. There will be a schedule so that spectators and participants can see what is happening there at any given time. This could be team presentations, but also sponsors showcasing their products or individual vehicles on display. The possibilities are endless. Since it’s all happening in the middle of our paddock and the area is right in front of our race office, everything that happens in the Heroes Arena is always the center of attention.
There will be autograph sessions for the drivers, where fans can come to the Heroes Arena and meet the drivers up close. Think of the Heroes Arena as a large forum around which everything will revolve during the GT Summer Series.
What will happen in the Heroes Arena with race cars?
MG: The highlight of the Heroes Arena will be the celebrated starting grid of the GT Summer Series. The entire field of vehicles will form its grid in several slots and will be available for photos, interviews, and insights into the teams’ preparations, just like an extended grid on the starting line. Our goal is to put the spotlight not only on the amateur drivers who are particularly important to us, but also on the team members who contribute significantly to our success. Just like on a grid on the track, the race cars will be presented to the audience, the livestream, and our fan cam—only with much less time restrictions than on a grid on the track and therefore with wonderful opportunities for visibility.
How should one visualize the area?
MG: Depending on the track and space conditions at the location in question, the Heroes Arena will easily accommodate ten cars. The arena is permanently branded with the Summer Series logo and series sponsors. This means that it is immediately clear where you are at all times and the identity of the series is carried with every appearance. Teams can register to use the Heroes Arena and use it for presentations, social media content, or team photos. To do this, our basic branding can be expanded to include that of the team. We support every project—the Heroes Arena knows virtually no limits.
When you look back on the Heroes Arena at the end of the 2026 season, what would you like to be able to say?
MG: We want to look back on five events and be able to say that we have finally brought the heroes of motorsport as close to their fans as they deserve to be. We want them to get the attention they deserve for all their enthusiasm. We want as many racing fans as possible to experience their heroes up close, get to know their teams, and witness their dedication and commitment. We want to look back and say that we have brought amateur motorsport to the forefront of public awareness and that our drivers and teams have achieved this through the Heroes Arena and our support.
Many thanks to Markus Gedlich for the interview.
The GT Summer Series will kick off from April 17 to 19, 2026, at the Hockenheimring in Baden. Registration is already open. The classes offered are GT4, GT3, GT2, Cup, Challenge, and Supertrofeo. The team is always available to answer any questions.
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