Mattias Ekström has confirmed that he will not compete in the DTM this year, ending his lengthy time in the category, with Robin Frijns revealed as his replacement.
Ekström has represented Audi in the championship since 2001, taking titles in 2004 and 2007, along with 23 wins, across a near-200 race spell.
Ekström has opted to concentrate on the factory-backed commitment of his team, EKS, in the World Rallycross Championship.
Frijns, 26, will replace Ekstrom in DTM, the Dutchman having compete for Audi customer teams in Blancpain, ADAC GT Masters and the FIA World Cup since 2015.
Frijns move into sportscar racing after he was unable to break onto the Formula 1 grid, following test outings with Red Bull, Sauber and Caterham, in spite of a prodigious junior single-seater record.
“This was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make,” said Ekström. “The DTM was my life for a long time and my heart will always continue to beat for the DTM in the future too.
“However, I’ve also invested a lot of time and energy in my rallycross team in recent years. Without the dual programme I’m now able to fully concentrate on one series again and have more freedom again for my family and my children.
“I’ll continue to compete for my own team and am clearing the way in the DTM for a promising youngster.”
For Frijns, 2018 marks his debut in DTM, having first run for Audi during a young river test in 2013.
“Robin left a strong impression with us even back then and we haven’t lost sight of him ever since,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dieter Gass.
“At the wheel of the Audi R8 LMS, he showed his abilities and is doing a very good job in our Formula E simulator as well.
“That it’s possible to battle for the title in the DTM even as a rookie was demonstrated by René Rast last year.
“Robin has great potential and Audi is in a very good position in terms of its driver line-up for the 2018 DTM. We’re convinced of this.”
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