After much deliberation by Audi Sport, it has now been confirmed that two-time DTM champion Mattias Ekström will be competing at the Norisring next week, instead of the FIA World Rallycross Championship event at Höljes, Sweden.
After six races in the current campaign, the Swede is just fourth in the standings, eight points of new championship leader René Rast, who took the lead from Mercedes’ Lucas Auer at the Hungaroring.
“It was a very difficult decision, because we’re still early in the season and Mattias has title chances in both championships,” stated Head of Audi Motorsport, Dieter Gass, who also said that DTM remains a priority within Ingolstadt’s racing programmes.
“Mattias can win his third DTM title this year and has always been very strong at the Norisring. In addition, this is our home round and we need Mattias there.”
It’s not the first time that a decision has had to be made regarding Ekström’s racing schedule, as the 38-year-old competed at the Estering round last year, which clashed with the DTM Hockenheim season finale.
“I’m happy that my boss has made this decision for me,” said Ekström, who will be replaced for the event at Höljes by countryman Per-Gunnar Andersson.
“That of all events there’s a clash between my home race in Höljes and one of my favorite races in the DTM is a real shame. I’d have loved racing at both events but, unfortunately, that’s not possible logistically.”