A word from Mattias Ekström

As the oldest driver in the field, youre about to start your 14th DTM season. Does this mean routine is the main name of the game? Not at all. While I do think its incredible to be the DTM senior at a mere age of 35, Im starting to acquire a taste for the role. I can still remember arriving at Hockenheim as a young gun 14 years ago, determined to make believers out of the old hands. Since then, Ive gathered a lot of experience, clinched a few victories and titles, and now Im the one the young drivers are aiming to beat. Thats a new chapter in my career in which Id still like to prove quite a bit.

Mattias Ekström, Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline

Photo by: XPB Images

Youve won the Hockenheim season opener twice what are the key factors? Aside from the fact that the Hockenheim track simply suits me well you need a special attitude for the first race of the year. You shouldnt be overly ambitious but have to be completely relaxed, trusting yourself and your team. I know that we did our homework over the past months, so Im totally cool and full of eager anticipation.

What does your personal preparation for the first race look like? Completely different than usual. For the first time in a long, long while Ive spent a whole long weekend just with my partner without our children, without our dogs and without motorsport. These phases are often neglected in the hectic DTM season, but are incredibly good for you.

You just presented your own rallycross team. What influence does this sideline job have on your DTM commitment? Its definitely a positive influence. Clearly, the DTM and Audi are my priorities. But Ive always enjoyed taking a peek into other racing series, to get to know new people and ways of working. Having the chance to do something different between DTM weekends, tests and working with my team makes me feel happy and relaxed. And it gives me new energy for the next race.

Audi