Based at the Circuit Mallorca Llucmajor venue on the popular holiday destination island off Spain’s east coast, Schieder’s involvement means the existing race circuit will be complimented by a rallycross track and performance driving centre.

“Over the past 16 years, I’ve gone around the world as a racing driver pretty much ignoring everything else because my focus has been 100 percent on racing,” said Scheider.

“Having retired from the DTM, I’ve been able to take off the blinkers and realise that there are plenty of other exciting things going on outside sport.”

“A few months ago, I took a first look at the site and immediately recognised the potential. I soon realised that a rallycross track had to be laid out next to the existing circuit.

"For this project, we have recruited no less a figure than Hermann Tilke.”

While assisting with the design initially created by Scheider, Tilke will also work on delivering safety features to the “highest standard”.

The new circuit will conform to the FIA regulation of 60 percent sealed and 40 percent unsealed surface.

The German driver's target is to create a venue capable of hosting European or World Rallycross level events in the future, with work due to be completed at the end of this year.

“I would obviously like to compete there myself one day,” said Scheider, who will race full-time in World RX this season for the MJP Racing Team Austria squad in a Ford Fiesta Supercar. “That would be a dream come true.

“I think we can offer something unique with this venue. A combination of that special holiday feeling and a spectacular view," he added.

The new performance centre will offer test and driving experiences in a range of machinery, including DTM cars, alongside testing facilities for circuit racing and rallycross teams.