Tom Kristensen, the man who is considered by most to be the best racing driver in endurance racing, having scored a record nine wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, has decided to end his career at the end of the month.
The 47-year old Dane bagged his first win in 1997, with the Joest Team run, Porsche-powered WSC95 prototype. He then scored six consecutive wins at La Sarthe, from 2000 to 2005, all of them in Audi racecars – except in 2003, when he raced a Bentley, and won again for Audi in 2008 and 2013.
Kristensen has been closely associated with the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s racing success: he achieved the brand’s first-ever sports car victory at the Sebring 12-hour race in March 2000 and its first win at the iconic Le Mans event three months later.
He has also won the 2002 American Le Mans Series (once again in an Audi prototype) and was the most successful Audi racer in the DTM championship from 2004 to 2009, with four victories, 18 podium places and nine pole positions.
“I’ve had the privilege of driving for the best team and the world’s coolest automobile manufacturer for 15 years”, said Kristensen. “I’ve had great team mates and worked together with fantastic people. With Audi, I’ve been able to win many titles and numerous races as well as experiencing some unforgettable, emotional moments. My string of victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours would not have been possible without Audi.”
Kristensen may cease competing in races as of November 30, after the final World Endurance Championship race in Brazil, but he will stay with Audi Sport as its representative and partner.
“Leaving this team as a driver is hard for me. But the day had to come at one time or another. I can only thank Audi and the entire staff for the great time I’ve had and look forward to my new tasks for the brand and the team of Audi Sport”, he commented.
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