The IDM is still fun even as a former rider: a class reunion at Hockenheim

During the IDM final weekend at the Hockenheimring, it wasn’t just the stands at the Motodrom that were well attended in the past; the paddock, too, always felt like a reunion of former riders who had bid farewell to the circuit for shorter or longer periods. This year was no different, as the IDM took to the track for a one-year interlude as Euro Moto.

On Sunday morning, among others, Swiss rider Dominik Schmitter was seen having a friendly chat with Frankfurt’s Marc Moser. Three years ago, they were still rivals in the Superbike class. Neither has regretted stepping away from racing so far. “I don’t miss racing,” explains Marc Moser, who works as a management consultant. “But I do miss riding on the racetrack. I’m realising right now that I need to ride more again.”

Dominic Schmitter does ride his motorbike more often, but not at a speed that’s much fun. Schmitter runs his own driving school and, as a driving instructor, sets a good example for his pupils by driving at a moderate pace. Schmitter had travelled to the Hockenheimring with his fiancée Samira, but wouldn’t reveal any concrete details about their future family plans. “We’re here as completely normal spectators,” says the Swiss rider, describing his trip to the IDM. “I’m only here for the people. I’m about to pop round to see Team BCC and Andy Gerlich. It’s a bit like a school reunion. And then I’ll pop in to see my old sponsor, LS2 Helmets. For me, that’s still the best helmet, and my driving pupils like it too. It would be nice to have a shop at my driving school.”

Marc Moser was a regular in the paddock during the 2026 season. His father runs the Triple M Ducati Frankfurt team with Lukas Tulovic. Moser didn’t want to miss out on seeing him win the title. “I don’t hold any official role within the team, though,” he explained. “If I spot something, I’ll point it out. But apart from that, it’s not my job. I’m also here for the people. Some of them have been part of your life in one way or another for as long as you can remember.”

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