Audi Sport enters the World Rallycross Championship with Ekström

Long-time Audi works driver Mattias Ekström founded EKS at the beginning of 2014 and led it to the top of the world in just three years with great personal commitment. In the 2016 season, EKS won both the drivers' and team world championships with the Audi S1 EKS RX quattro against strong competition from Ford, Peugeot, Volkswagen and numerous private teams. "We are aware that it is becoming increasingly difficult for EKS to compete against the works teams, which is why we have decided to step up our involvement in the World RX," says Head of Audi Motorsport Dieter Gass.

Mattias Ekström sees his commitment confirmed: "We have built up a lot as a team in three years, gained important experience and set new standards with EKS. But it was also clear to us that we needed support for the future in order to continue at this level. I am very pleased that EKS is now being supported by the Audi factory. I am convinced that rallycross has a great future, also with regard to a possible
Electrification."

EKS already had access to suppliers and partners from Audi Sport. From now on, the technical development of the all-wheel drive Audi S1 EKS RX quattro will be carried out in cooperation with Audi's motorsport department.

Alongside his works involvement in the FIA World Rallycross Championship, Mattias Ekström will remain with Audi as a DTM driver. The Swede has extended his driver contract and will tackle his 17th DTM season in 2017. "I have good prospects in the DTM and want to become champion for the third time," says the 2004 and 2007 DTM champion.

www.audi.com