Rast’s “headache” required serious care after Zandvoort DTM win

Schubert BMW driver Rene Rast hit his head just before the second DTM race of the Zandvoort weekend, it has been revealed, turning what looked like a relaxed Sunday drive through the dunes into a feat of strength for his 29th career DTM victory.

“Yes, I have a headache,” confirmed the three-time DTM champion in an interview with ran after the race, though he downplayed the situation: “You really have to concentrate and keep your thoughts together, block out the pain. I took two painkillers before the start.”

However, over the course of the podium ceremony, Rast’s symptoms worsened. He complained of discomfort, dizziness, and even tingling in his fingers. “It was a very difficult race physically. I had a lot of head pain. Also, my fingers are still tingling, so it wasn’t easy, but yeah, we made it.”

Next race: Le Mans

Following the podium ceremony, Rast was initially treated in an ambulance. However, instead of attending the press conference, the race winner was taken directly to the medical center for further examinations of his head and cervical spine (neck).

Because options at the track were limited, Rast was transferred to a hospital in Haarlem. A CT scan was scheduled there to rule out possible injuries to the cervical spine, a BMW spokesperson confirmed to Autosport.

Autosport understands the incident occurred roughly 10 minutes before the race started, when Rast had gone to use the restroom one last time. While stepping over the pitwall, the BMW driver is said to have struck his head hard on the railing.

Even team principal Torsten Schubert was unaware of the situation: “I didn’t know anything until the podium. Only after the podium.”

Marco Wittmann, who had even put pressure on his BMW team-mate in the final phase of the race, was also unaware of Rast’s health issues.

“No, I’m actually surprised, so I’ll definitely check in to see what’s going on,” said the runner-up, who was still completely in the dark during the press conference: “I didn’t notice him having any problems, so maybe it happened during the race.”

Following last night’s examinations, Rast was released from hospital and is now able to make his way to Le Mans, where he’ll drive the #20 BMW M Hybrid V8 alongside Robin Frijns and Sheldon van der Linde in the Hypercar class this week.

“Quick update: got released from hospital this evening,” the German wrote on Instagram last night. “No injuries detected which means I am ready to go to Le Mans tomorrow.

“Just before today’s DTM race start, I hit my head quite heavily which lead to some pain and dizziness. The medical team took precautions and sent me to a hospital for checks. Better safe than sorry. Thanks for all your messages.”