Ekström gives up DTM but continues in World RX

Mattias Ekstrom confirmed on Tuesday his full-time commitment to the World Championship of Rallycross (World RX) with Audi. The Swede, crowned in 2016 within his own EKS team, scored four successes in 2017 and a final second place behind Johan Kristoffersson.

In return, Mattias Ekström announced his withdrawal from DTM, a discipline in which he has competed continuously since 2001. Faithful to the Rings brand, he won two titles with the Abt Sportline team, in 2004 and 2007. “Leaving the DTM is one of the most difficult decisions of my career. My life revolved around this championship for many years; however I have invested a lot of time and energy into my rallycross program recently. By focusing on a single commitment, I can dedicate more time to my family and my children”, explains the 38-year-old pilot.

MEDIAINFO: Audi driver @mattiasekstroem ends @DTM career https://t.co/eqtZAEM5nB #DTM #WorldRX #LeagueofPerformance pic.twitter.com/cX4RSf87bp

- Audi Sport (@audisport) 29th January 2018

“Mattias informed us well in advance of his desire to abandon one of the two championships in 2018, recognizes Dieter Gass, head of Audi Motorsport. “Of course, Mattias is extremely useful and important to both projects; this is why this decision was not easy to make for both parties. »