Photo: DTM Media

Mattias Ekström: “A dream weekend”

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Mattias Ekström stepped back on top of the podium in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters race at Nürburgring this weekend for the first time since may 2010 and described it as a dream weekend.
“This was actually one of those weekends that you dream about, where everything just goes your way,” said Ekström to TouringCarTimes.

The Swede qualified on pole and won the race in style, leading from lights to flag.

“Things started well already on the first friday test, even though it is difficult to know by then since everyone are on tyres with different rate of ware. But I knew saturday morning that we had a great car, we barely had to change anything on the setup from qualifying to race,” said Ekström.

The last time Ekström stepped on top of the podium was in Spain on the 23rd of May 2010.

“The victory is of course extra nice since it was so long ago. I think one of the reasons it has taken so long is the tyres. When Mercedes really picked up the pace last season, I felt that I was not able to match them, I never really got along with the tyres. This year with Hankook it is completely different. The tyres are really even and they have got a completely different feeling which has brought the field much closer,” said Ekström.

The victory saw Ekström climb to fifth in the championship, 26 points from championship leader Bruno Spengler.

“It is going to things beyond my control for me to challenge for the title this year. Spengler has had a great season so far. But then of course, things can turn around quickly and it isn’t over until it’s over. My main ambition is to continue to build on the feeling that me and my team had this weekend for next season. That is more important that outright results at the moment,” said Ekström.

Ekström is going to continue for Audi next year when the DTM changes to new regulations and BMW enters the championship.

“I feel that I have more to prove in the DTM. Next year is going to be fantastic, especially with BMW entering the championship and the competition increases. I am really looking forward to next season,” said Ekström.