The Motorsport-year 2008 has been very successful for Audi. The victories have been lined up in Le Mans, American Le Mans Series and most recently the DTM-title of Timo Scheider. TouringCarTimes were present during the DTM-final at Hockenheim and met up with the man responsible: Audi Motorsport-boss Dr Wolfgang Ullrich.
Was the final race emotional?
“It was an incredible final! We had to work for a long time to make sure that Timo’s car was perfect (after damage during qualifying) for the final. The entire day was very emotional, full grandstands and a very enthusiastic crowd! Timo made a perfect race, despite of his competitors trying everything possible. He is a worthy champion!”
It has been a very successful year overall for Audi, what are your thoughts?
“Yes, we have certainly achieved maximum of what we could achieve! We have won all championships that we have participated in plus the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It shows how incredibly strong our team is. Whether it is the people at Audi Sport, Audi AG, our different teams and, of course, our drivers – it all has to fit together to have such a great year!”
What does the future hold for the Audi Motorsport-program?
“We have completed the last year in a very extensive 5-year-program. Each autumn we go through all the details of all activities, so we have to wait until after the Essen Motor Show before we can say anything further.”
Are you pleased with the progress of DTM?
“I would say that the final race of this year showed how strong DTM is with two participating manufacturers. We would not have had such a strong final race otherwise. But of course, a new manufacturer would be very welcome.”
Would you, representing Audi, support new rules to make it easier for a new manufacturer to enter?
“Of course, if a new manufacturer is interested in a long term commitment, we would invite them in the discussions for new rules. A discussion that has been going on for one full year already.”
