Audi to make factory return with R10

Audi will be entering two of its diesel-engined R10 sportscars in the final six rounds of the season.

In total, Audi will have a works entry in seven of the 10 rounds this season - with the remaining three rounds still contested by privateer R8 entries.

The most successful manufacturer in Le Mans racing, Audi competed with a factory team in the ALMS between 2000 and 2002.

Audi will enter two R10 prototypes to the ALMS season-opening round at next month. The March 18th 12-hour race will mark the debut of the R10, powered by a V12 TDI engine with 650hp.

Audi will then concentrate on the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, held on June 17/18, and will thereafter join the ALMS series for the remainder of the season, starting with the Grand Prix of Utah at the new circuit near Salt Lake City, on July 15.

Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich said today: "The main reason for developing the Audi R10 was to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as we want to be the world's first automobile manufacturer to win with a diesel engine.

"From the very beginning it was, however, our intention to enter the R10 in every racing series based on Le Mans.

"The USA is an extremely important market in which the subject 'Diesel' is currently coming in vogue. The ALMS programme with the R10 is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of the Audi TDI engines in America."

Johan de Nysschen, executive vice-president of Audi of America, added: "Audi of America is looking forward to our seventh season of participation in the American Le Mans Series.

"The R8 success was very instrumental in building awareness for Audi technology and performance, and we hope the R10 will achieve the same success."