2015 was certainly not a bad year for Jochen Hahn, with 3rd in both the driver and team championships. But you get the sense that the triple champion is looking for much more from the 2016 season.
 
There is no doubt that Hahn starts this year as one of the favourites for the championship. We caught up with the German ace during his busy pre-season preparations which included testing at Most recently before the season kick-off at Red Bull Ring, Spielberg this weekend.
 
Have you been working hard over the winter and feel all set to challenge for the 2016 FIA ETRC title?
 
“Yes we work very hard in the winter. We were two times testing in Most. From the last time till today, we already have made advances, we are rather fast. Overall I am very satisfied and I think we still have further potential, too. I want to be the champion again this year.
 
Who do you expect to be your main challengers this year?
 
“Clearly Adam Lacko in the Buggyra is very fast and Adam is a very good pilot.”
 
How do you think the future of truck racing looks at present?
 
“We have a good feeling with the new promoter (the ETRA GmbH). I think a new era begins now for the Teams, Drivers and the Fans.”
 
With just a few days to go until Round 1 of the FIA ETRC gets underway at the Red Bull Ring, Spielberg in Austria hopes are running high for one of the best championship battles the FIA ETRC has seen for a while.
 
Hahn and rival Adam Lacko (Buggyra) have to start as favourites for the championship, but even though Norbert Kiss has cited this year as a development one, with his new team Tankpool 24 Racing, don’t expect him to give up his title without a fight. Other front runners are sure to be René Reinert and Anthony Janiec, both of whom won races last season.
 
As well as the close on-track action there is plenty for fans to enjoy off track as well. The FIA ETRC may be one of the biggest motorsport championships, but it is also one of the friendliest, with plenty of access to the teams and drivers available to the fans. This season sees a new Fan Village where a variety of entertainments and points of interest will be available.
 
When we asked Jochen about his favourite memories of his time in truck racing, it is clear that the sport’s fans are a key part of it “Many successes, many fans around the world, a lot of friends in the paddock. A lot of beautiful moments with my Team.”
 
Editor’s Notes:

FIA ETRC 2016 calendar dates
 

 
All of the 2016 FIA European Truck Championship entrants will use Goodyear's specially provided tires.