Ekström will favor DTM over World RX

Audi Sport therefore made its decision by favoring the DTM at World RX. Mattias Ekström will miss the next round of the Rallycross world championship on the weekend of July 2 on its grounds in Höljes to respect its commitments in DTM which will take place the same weekend at the Norisring. The reigning world champion will give way to his compatriot PG Andersson in his Audi S1 ​​EKS.

*** BREAKING *** @pganderssonrallying will replace Mattias at #HoljesRX. Great to have you back again, PG. #WorldRX @FIAWorldRX @audisport pic.twitter.com/JGgHHKzIvy

— EKS (@EKSRX) 23th June 2017

“I am happy that my boss (Dieter Gass) made the decision for me, admits Mattias Ekström. Having a clash of dates between my national event in Höljes and one of my favorite DTM races is really unfortunate. I would love to be able to compete in both events, but it's not logistically possible. »

“It was a very difficult decision to make because we are still very early in the season and Mattias has his chances of title in both Championships, notes Dieter Gass, director of Audi Motorsport. Factory engagement in DTM was the priority for us. Mattias can win his third DTM title this year and he has always been strong at the Norisring. »

After winning the first three events of the World RX season, Mattias Ekström occupies second place in the Championship behind Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen). The Scandinavian is in 4th position in the DTM standings, 8 points behind leader René Rast.