Tom Kristensen announces his retirement

Tom Kristensen will leave an indelible mark in the world ofEndurance and motorsport in general. The 47-year-old Dane will end a formidable career at the end of the 2014 season, which notably saw him leave his mark on the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After beginnings in car in Germany, it is in Japan that Kristensen goes into exile to run in Formula 3 and in Tourism. But from 1997, his career turned towards endurance racing, with success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in his first participation with a TWR-Porsche. Eight more will follow from 2000 and the start of its successful collaboration with Audi. Along with his teammates Emanuele Pirro and Frank Biela, he will be the first factory driver to win the Le Mans event three times in a row between 2000 and 2002.

“I have had the privilege of driving with the best team and the coolest car manufacturer in the world for 15 years, says Kristensen. I had a lot of great teammates and worked with fantastic people. With Audi, I was able to win many titles and many races, and I experienced unforgettable moments of emotion. My winning streak at the 24 Hours of Le Mans would not have been possible without Audi. Leaving this team is difficult for me. But the day had to come at some point. I can only thank Audi and the entire staff for these moments, and I look forward to my new tasks for the Audi Sport brand and team. » Because if the Dane will no longer drive, he will remain an ambassador of choice for the brand with the rings.

“Naturally, the retirement of such a remarkable personality like Tom Kristensen is a great loss for Audi Sport Team Joest and the entire endurance scene, explains Audi Motorsport boss Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. We understand his decision to quit at the peak of his career. He is the last member of the generation with which Audi started in the prototype category. Tom evolved into WEC as reigning World Champion this year and shown that he is still one of the best and fastest riders in the world. We will miss him as a driver, but he will continue to support us with the wealth of his experience and his personality. » Kristensen also offered one of his racing helmets to the Audi boss during this press conference where Ralf Jüttner, boss of Team Joest made a surprise appearance.

The native of Hobro will ride for the last time with the R18 e-tron quattro during the Interlagos final on November 30 in Brazil.