Paffett extends Mercedes DTM deal

The 2005 DTM champion' s new multi-year deal also means that he becomes the first Mercedes driver confirmed for 2012, when the series introduces its next generation of car and BMW makes its return.

"I am delighted to continue my relationship with Mercedes-Benz for the long term," said Paffett. "We have worked together for a long time, enjoyed a lot of success and I feel a big part of this successful racing family.

"Next year, the DTM will enter a new era and the competition will be even tougher. I' m very excited to be part of this new era of the DTM and the fact that I now have a long-term contract in place gives me a solid basis on which to perform even better."

Paffett is the most successful active driver in the DTM at the moment, with 16 championship race wins in his career dating back to 2003. In addition to winning the title, he has finished second in the points three times.

Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug added: "Gary is a vital part of our very successful history in the DTM. He is a racer in the purest form: straight and tough but always fair.

"This new contract will take us into a second decade together, and we will work hard to ensure it will be just as successful as our first - or even better."

Paffett is currently ninth in the DTM standings after three out of 10 races this year.