BMW confirm DTM exit for Augusto Farfus

BMW Motorsport has confirmed that Augusto Farfus will not take part in the DTM with them next year as the Brazilian instead will focus on GT racing.

“The decision to turn my back on the DTM was obviously not one that I took lightly,” said Farfus.

“It is arguably the best touring car series in the world and I have always felt very comfortable in the DTM family and BMW teams. I have learned a lot, been able to demonstrate my speed, and even challenged for the title. It has been an amazing time.”

Farfus will drive the BMW M8 GTE in the 2019 FIA World Endurance Championship and selected GT races in the BMW M6 GT3 for the Bavarian manufacturer.

“However, anyone who knows me also knows how much I love GT racing. I felt that it was time to embark on a new chapter. I am very grateful to BMW for accepting my decision and giving me the opportunity to continue to drive BMW race cars at the very highest level. I am really looking forward to 2019,” said Farfus.

The 35-year-old drove his first DTM season for BMW in 2012 and had his best season in the German championship the year after, finishing as runner-up.

“In 2011, Augusto Farfus was one of the first drivers we brought on board for our DTM comeback the following year – and he has established himself as a top DTM driver in his seven seasons in the series,” said BMW Motorsport director Jens Marquardt.

“Who could forget the 2013 season, when he was in contention for much of the year before eventually finishing as runner-up. We obviously respect Augusto’s decision not to continue to race in the DTM, however, he remains a valuable member of the BMW family. Together we have decided to integrate him even more intensely in our GT programme next year, as well as in the WEC ‘Super Season’. Augusto is one of the world’s very best GT racing drivers. We would like to continue our success story together, which began back in 2007, in 2019 and beyond.”

Farfus has also been linked to a WTCR programme with Hyundai in 2019.