The confirmation that BMW are returning to the DTM in 2012, is unsurprisingly accompanied by enthusiastic quotes from BMW and the organisers of the DTM.

Far more interesting are the quotes from BMW’s rivals in the championship, Audi and Mercedes. Both are very nice and positive, but also keen put it in the context of their company being better.

Audi’s Wolfgang Ullrich:

“BMW and Mercedes-Benz are our two main rivals on the global car market. The fact that we are able to compete with these two prestigious brands on the track fits perfectly into the motorsport strategy of our company. With four DTM titles since 2004, Audi is the most successful manufacturer in recent history of the DTM and the first manufacturer ever to win three DTM titles in a row. With BMW’s commitment, it will be even tougher in the DTM from 2012. We will gladly be facing this challenge.”

And Mercedes boss Norbert Haug:

“From our point of view, a good decision that confirms how important it was and how right we were at Mercedes-Benz to continuously commit to the DTM for more than 20 years, and thus longer than any other manufacturer, in such a determined way. We are looking forward to the new and respected competitor from Munich and we congratulate them to their arrival in the DTM in 2012.”

So they’re telling BMW that yes, you are welcome back, but remember: Audi is the most successful, Mercedes has been around the longest.

In other words: know your place, scum.