Jarvis replaces Kristensen in Audi DTM lineup

Audi AG recently confirmed its racing program for the upcoming season of the DTM series, proving once again that the German championship is regarded as top priority by the Ingolstadt based car maker. As announced at the beginning of last season, Tom Kristensen will no longer be part of the team next year, as he chose to switch completely to sports car racing. Under the circumstances, the Audi ABT Sportsline team proceeded to some changes prior to the start of the 2010 preparations, announcing that British driver Oliver Jarvis – formerly member of the Audi Team Phoenix in the DTM – has been promoted to the works' driver role within the Audi organization.

“We are thus giving our youngest ‘factory’ driver the chance to prove his prowess in a current DTM car. The performances Oliver has shown in his first DTM years at the wheel of a year-old A4 speak in his favor," announced the Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

Jarvis made the points 4 times our of 10 races in his sophomore season in the DTM (2009), including a couple of podiums at the season opening Hockenheim round and Zandvoort. He eventually finished the 2009 campaign in 9th place, the highest placed Audi privateer in the drivers' standings.

“I'm absolutely delighted to be given this opportunity by Audi Sport. I've been working hard with Audi for the past two years to achieve this opportunity which will allow me to fight for race wins throughout the entire season," added the 25-year old driver.

In addition, the Audi's latest statement reiterated once again the level of commitment from the German manufacturer to the DTM series, as it will again field no less than 9 cars through its works' and private teams (Phoenix and Rosberg).

“The most popular international touring car racing series will continue to be one of the cornerstones of AUDI AG’s motorsport commitment. After the technology for the 2010 season has been frozen by the regulations and the 2009 championship winning car will therefore start from the grid almost unchanged," said the company in the press release.

“Meanwhile work on the A4 successor vehicle has already begun at Audi Sport in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm for the new Technical Regulations that will come into effect in 2011 with the aim of achieving further cost reductions," also revealed the Audi execs. (press release)