Alesi extends Mercedes deal through '05

Alesi will continue to drive for the Three-pointed Star's top team, AMG (aka HWA). He has won two races in his DTM career thus far, both at Donington Park (in 2002 and '03).

"The DTM is a very competitive championship in which many drivers of all participating brands have the opportunity to win," said Alesi. "Therefore, this is the greatest challenge I can image in motor racing after ending my Formula 1 career.

"Mercedes-Benz provides me with a car that gives me the chance to win races, and a very professional team. In addition, the DTM care a lot about their fans not only with exciting races, but also with an attractive side programme. I like to be so close to the people who support me. These are three good reasons to stay with DTM and Mercedes-Benz."

Mercedes-Benz Motorsport's Norbert Haug, said: "Since Jean Alesi has joined Mercedes-Benz and the DTM, he has contributed to the growing popularity of our sport. With his two race wins he has proved his talent and that he is still eager. Therefore everybody in our team is happy that we are able to extend our contract with him and we look forward to many exciting and successful races with Jean to come."

Alesi is currently fifth in the DTM, 18 points behind series leader Bernd Schneider.