Audi: “DTM without Mercedes would be hard to imagine”

Audi Motorsport boss Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich spoke about the future of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters in an interview with Sportsinformationsdienst and emphasized the importance of keeping Mercedes in the series.
“I think I feel like the fans: a DTM without Mercedes would be difficult to imagine,” said Ullrich.

Rumors have, according to Sportsinformationsdienst, suggested that Mercedes would leave the series if they are not able to clinch the title year. The season has started well for Mercedes, but not in any way thanks to Audi, according to Ullrich.

“Audi is in tough competition with Mercedes, on the racetrack as well as on the market. We do not give anything away. Audi does not give anything for free, nor does Mercedes,” said Ullrich.

Audi and Mercedes could get company from a third big exclusive german car manufacturer in the DTM shortly. BMW announced recently that they intend to enter the series in 2012 when the new rules are introduced.

“It is very positive for DTM and the fans. It shows that Audi has put effort in the right series and that we have together with Mercedes and ITR created an excellent stage for premium manufacturers,” said Ullrich.

Ullrich and Audi are expecting more manufacturers, other than BMW, in 2012.

“There are several interesting negotiations and positive signals going on,” said Ullrich.

The DTM is going to introduce new rules, that are yet to be revealed in detail for the public, in 2012, featuring cost cutting changes on common parts, aerodynamics and the engines.