After 23 years, Mattias Ekström bids farewell to Audi

Between Mattias Ekström and Audi it is over. The two parties have made official the end of their joint adventure. A joint adventure that began 23 years ago, in 2001, and which has led them to all kinds of success.

« Driving for Audi was like a childhood dream come true, remember the Swedish. More than two decades spent behind the wheel of the four rings cars bring back many memories. I was lucky enough to realize my childhood dreams, such as racing in DTM, winning races and titles, and developing racing cars.

Winning the DTM title in 2004 is something I will always remember. But it’s not just motorsport. I’ve had the chance to meet a lot of interesting and talented people, and I’ve been to many great events. It’s quite rare in motorsport to work for the same company for so long, and I’m very grateful to have experienced this period of my life. I can only thank everyone at Audi »

Together, Mattias Ekström and Audi have left their mark on certain disciplines. In DTM, they won the title twice (2004 and 2007). In rallycross, he was crowned world champion (2016). Not forgetting his victory at the 24 Hours of Spa 2011 alongside Timo Scheider and Greg Franchi.

Mattias Ekström during his DTM title in 2004. © Audi

More recently, the 43-year-old driver was one of the spearheads of the German manufacturer's project at the Dakar with the RS Q e-tron. In 2022, for the big launch, he was even able to offer a stage victory to Audi.

In addition, Mattias Ekström has been an excellent ambassador for the Ingolstadt brand, always ready to take part in special events aboard different racing cars, such as the climb of the Streif in Austria (considered in the skiing world as the most difficult, technical, dangerous but above all the most prestigious descent in the world) at the wheel of an Audi E-Tron.

« We owe a lot to Mattias, and in return we have helped him achieve the greatest successes of his career., says Rolf Michl, Director of Audi Sport. Even today, I am impressed not only by his consistent performances, but also by his excellent team spirit. Mattias has never focused solely on racing. He has always contributed to advancing projects, supporting our developers and promoting the teams he has worked with. Thanks to these qualities and his series of successes, he is a role model for many international talents in motorsport. We wish him all the best for the rest of his career. »

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