The FIA World Rallycross Championship (WRX) will feature at the season opener of the 2015 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters, following successful negotiations between DTM promotoer ITR and WRX promoter IMG.
In addition to marking the first event with the DTM’s new two-race format, the season opener in May will also feature action from the spectacular new FIA championship, which enters into its second season in 2015.
Especially for the event a new Rallycross circuit will be constructed in the stadium section of the iconic German circuit, featuring fast tarmac sections, gravel off-road sections and jumps.
ITR Chairman Hans-Werner Aufrecht is delighted to be able to welcome the event to the bill to liven up the show for fans – something that DTM bosses are keen to do in the coming season.
“Whatever we do, we always do it allowing for the interests of the fans we want to provide a unique experience, at the circuit,” said Aufrecht. “In consideration of this fact, the FIA World Rallycross Championship suits us perfectly: the DTM high-tech touring cars and the rugged compact World RX racers represent two different, fascinating motor-sport facets. I am convinced that the motor-racing enthusiasts will love this combination.”
Marin Anayi, World RX CEO for IMG Motorsport, says it is a big honour for his fledgling series to be supporting the DTM already.
“For us, being a partner of the 2015 DTM season kick-off represents a big honour,” said Anayi. “We all were truly impressed by the professionalism ITR displays while organising DTM. Now we just can’t wait for demonstrating the German crowds that World RX provides a really extraordinary motor-racing experience.
“There is a natural connection between the two series: Mattias Ekström races in both championships and World RX driver Anton Marklund also contests the new Audi Sport TT Cup. We were just thrilled by the opportunity to build a rallycross circuit at one of the most famous motorsport-venues of the world.
“Now we have got the chance of presenting the World RX and our sport in front of a completely new audience. We are delighted about the idea to enhance this partnership with ITR and look forward to the future cooperation.”