New DTM champion René Rast has confirmed that he will return to the German series to defend his title in 2019, with the German also contesting the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with Mazda.
Rast, who wrapped up the DTM title in his first full season, has confirmed he will remain with Audi Sport to defend his title in 2018.
“I’m delighted with being able to announce that I’m going to also race for Audi Sport in 2018,” said Rast at the 2017 Autobild Race Night. “To just fight on and keep going for it definitely pays off.
“Back in 2003 I competed in Formula BMW and raced for the first time in the DTM support programme.
“Since then, I dreamed about racing in DTM myself. I tried year by year to somehow make it on the DTM grid and year by year I had to cope with another blow from behind.
“I tried year by year to somehow make it on the DTM grid and year by year I had to cope with another blow from behind.
“This year, Audi Sport finally offered me the opportunity to advance to the series. It goes without saying that I also pressurised myself. But now I’m just happy.”
“Team Rosberg just did a perfect job – you can’t describe it differently, after all we won the title. They made me feel at home right from the start and the team spirit is amazing. Therefore, I owe my title these guys too.”
Rast will combine his DTM commitments with competing for Mazda Team Joest in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in North America.