Photo: DTM Media

Mattias Ekström confirmed for NASCAR

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Mattias Ekström is going to become the first ever Swede in NASCAR on the 20th of June. After a successful test for the NASCAR Red Bull Racing Team, Ekström has been confirmed to take part in the race at Sonoma (California).
“First of all, I’d like to express my sincere thanks: to Red Bull for inviting a Swede with zero NASCAR experience to compete in the United States,” said Ekström.

“And to Audi for the possibility and approval that enable me to fulfill this dream. This trust by the Audi family gives me additional motivation to return to Europe with a good result and to step on the gas again in Audi’s home race at the Norisring in Nuremberg,” said Ekström.

Ekström is going to drive the number 83 car in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race in a little less than two weeks.

“Tests are one thing and they were a good opportunity for me to get accustomed to a NASCAR vehicle. But contesting a race with 42 other cars is totally new territory for me. I’ll simply try and concentrate on my strengths and to stay cool for 350 kilometers,” said Ekström.

Audi Motorsport boss Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich is sending his best wishes to his double DTM champion.

“Mattias’ commitment as a guest entrant impressively shows the prestige which the DTM and the Audi drivers enjoy in the United States too. As early as in his test Mattias showed that he can stand his ground with a new team and a new car on a new track,” said Ullrich.

The weekend for Ekström is going to start on Friday June the 18th with free practice and qualifying. Two more practice sessions will be held on Saturday before the 110 lap race starts at 12.00 local time on Sunday. Ekström is going to compete among 42 other cars on the grid.