Paffett signs multi-year contract with Mercedes

Gary Paffett has signed a new contract with Mercedes, stating that he is going to remain with the German manufacturer for “2012 and beyond”.
“I am delighted to continue my relationship with Mercedes-Benz for the long term – we have worked together for a long time, enjoyed a lot of success and I feel a big part of this successful racing family,” said Paffett.

Paffett has been with Mercedes since 2003 and next season will mark the 9th season in the DTM for the Brit.
“Next year, the DTM will enter a new era and the competition will be even tougher. It’s a big challenge to try and make our future as successful as we have been in the past – and I am sure experience and continuity will play a big role in achieving that,” said Paffett.

2012 means new rules and new cars for the DTM, a development process that Paffett is pleased to be part of.
“I’m very excited to be part of this new era of the DTM and the fact that I now have a long-term contract in place with Mercedes gives me a solid basis on which to perform even better,” said Paffett.

The Brit has claimed 17 victories in 73 races, meaning that he is the most successful active driver in the DTM.
“Gary is a vital part of our very successful history in the DTM. He is a racer in the purest form: straight and tough but always fair. On behalf of Mercedes-Benz, I would like to thank Gary for all his hard work and the success he has had until now. This new contract will take us into a second decade together, and we will work hard to ensure it will be just as successful as our first – or even better,” said Norbert Haug, Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport.