Alfa took part in the DTM series for four years from 1993 to 1996, as well as its international offspring the ITC, using a four wheel drive racer based around the 156's predecessor, the 155. The Martini sponsored Alfa Romeo 155 V6 TI, in Nicola Larini's hands, won the 1993 Championship after a fight to the wire with Roland Asch's Mercedes-Benz 190E. Other notable drivers to race for Alfa in the DTM during that period included former F1 stars Sandro Nannini, Gabriele Tarquini, Christian Danner, Giancarlo Fisichella and Stefano Modena.

This time the project will be managed by Ferrari, Fiat Group's sportscar marker being given overall responsibility for chassis and engine development as they become ever more closely involved with Alfa Romeo. Presently Ferrari are developing a 5.0-litre V10 exclusively for Alfa Romeo, while a higher specification version of Alfa Romeo's 8c Competizione due in 2006 will be powered by the Enzo's 6.0-litre V12 and carry 'Scuderia Ferrari' badging.

Michael and Ralf Schumacher's manager Willie Weber is a leading light in the project, while the F1 World Champion will also be involved in developing the new car. The possibility of a one off appearance by the German star in a race has not been ruled out. Alfa Romeo's CEO Daniele Bandiera has received strong backing from their German importer who is expected to contribute to the required budget.