Belt tightening is inevitable in the current social and economic climate and in the world of motorsport that often means manufacturers focus their efforts on one format or championship. So is the case with Audi, which has just announced that 2020 will its last in DTM, Germany’s wild touring car championship.
Formerly the home of wild, winged, fire-breathing monster machines, participation in the DTM has been in decline for some years, to the point where only Audi and BMW are competing this season (if it happens of course). Since BMW is highly unlikely to be interested in a one-make series, today’s news may mean the championship comes to an end after 20 years in its current incarnation, although there has recently been suggestion it could turn to GT3 machinary to fill the gap.
Audi says it will be focusing on its works Formula E team, which fits its forthcoming electrification strategy. It will however continue to supply cars to privateer racing teams.
The firm leaves the series on a high at least, having won all three of last year’s titles with the 600bhp Audi RS 5 DTM.
Do you think the DTM will survive beyond 2020?
Audi
DTM