Audi Pulling Out DTM Racing At End Of 2020 Season

Audi has decided to pull out of DTM racing as a result of their shift towards eco-friendly vehicles and the “economic challenges” related to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the four-ringed brand, they are “realigning” their motorsport program and will exit DTM racing at the end of the 2020 season.

Audi has been involved in DTM racing for decades and have been extremely successful in the series. Over the years, they have scored 23 championship titles, 11 driver titles, 114 victories and 345 podium finishes. There have also been 106 pole positions and 112 fastest laps.

Also Read: Audi’s New 2.0-liter Four-Cylinder DTM Engine Churns Out More Than 610 HP

Audi also noted “With three of three possible championship titles, numerous podiums and many other records, 2019 has so far been the most successful DTM season in the company’s history.” The brand went on to say they hope the situation improves, so they can compete in a few more races before they exit the series.

While the company is pulling out of DTM racing, they aren’t quitting motorsports altogether. Instead, their involvement in Formula E will take center stage.

Given the brand’s electric vehicle push, which will see them launch at least 20 EVs by 2025, this makes sense.  The company also noted they have been involved in Formula E since the series began in 2014 and their Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler team has racked up 41 trophies over the years.

The news is bittersweet and Chairman Markus Duesmann said “Audi has shaped the DTM and the DTM has shaped Audi.” However, he noted the company is transitioning to a “provider of sporty, sustainable electric mobility” so their racing efforts will transition as well. Duesmann went on to say “Formula E offers a very attractive platform” to promote their electric vehicles and noted they’re also “investigating other progressive motorsport formats for the future.”