• 2004 DTM Champion aims for 2006 title
• Multi-year involvement enables long-term planning
Only a few days after AUDI AG revealed its long-term involvement in the DTM
till 2008, the company has agreed terms with Mattias Ekström to extend
contracts. The 2004 DTM Champion will once again compete as Audi works driver
in the most popular and high-calibre international touring car race series.
“Mattias is an incredibly fast and pleasant racing driver. He fits perfectly
to the Audi brand,” explained Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich.
“We are delighted that he will continue to fly the flag for Audi over
the next three years.” The 27-year old Swede, who is one of the world's
best touring car drivers, said after lengthening his contract: “I’m
very happy that we are able to continue this long-term and successful relationship,
especially since we have created an excellent foundation for a long-term plan
with the signing of this three-year contract. Although I obviously already
have the next target in my sights: to reclaim the DTM title for Audi in 2006.”
Mattias Ekström was born on 14 July 1978 in Falun (S), has his home in Krylbo (S) and lives together with Swede Tina Thörner who is also actively involved in motorsport. His career started in 1993. In 1999, he was Swedish Touring Car Champion driving an Audi A4 quattro. In 2001 he arrived on the DTM scene where he has driven exclusively Audi cars from his first race. In 2004, he won, as youngest driver ever in DTM history to that point, the title in an Audi A4 DTM. In 2005 he was narrowly beaten to the title and finished, as best Audi driver, in second place.