Audi confirm DTM commitment

The German manufacturer has agreed to field between eight and 10 cars next season, meaning that with Mercedes' 10 cars, the German governing body DMSB's minimum requirement of 16 cars and two manufacturers have been met.

The entire championship was under threat when Audi failed to submit their entry for the series by the deadline, and instead requested an extension to finalise their plans after they were concerned they would have to supply more cars to make up for Opel's withdrawal this season.

However, Audi have now said they are fully commited to the series.

"We want to recapture the lead from Mercedes-Benz to thus underline our position as the sportiest manufacturer in the premium car segment," says Professor Dr Martin Winterkorn, chairman of the board of management of Audi.

"At the same time, together with Mercedes-Benz, we are going to continue to work on strengthening the DTM's role as the most attractive racing series outside of Formula 1. With a long-term commitment to DTM, which currently is planned for at least three years including 2008, we are adding our part to that."

Head of Audi Motorsport, Dr Wolfgang Ullrich said: "It is obvious that spectators want to see spectacular touring cars at the highest level. And this is exactly what the DTM offers them. Additionally, the cars are so appealing that the DTM even attracts the world's best racing drivers.

"With Audi and Mercedes-Benz committing to DTM on a long-term basis, it gives the series 'security' for all interested partners and other manufacturers."