The Azerbaijan State News Agency

Rast joins BMW as factory driver after Audi exit

Rast joins BMW as factory driver after Audi exit

Baku, August 24, AZERTAC

Three-time DTM champion Rene Rast will join BMW’s roster of factory drivers in 2023 after announcing his exit from Audi earlier this month, according to motorsport.com.

Although the exact details of his programme will be revealed at a later date, BMW said he will drive a number of cars from its stable next year. In 2023, the Munich-based manufacturer will compete in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the new BMW M Hybrid V8, while also having extensive presence in GT3 racing with the new-for-2024 M4.

Rast will switch to BMW after a 12-year stint with Audi that made him one of the most successful drivers in DTM history with three titles (2017, '19, '20) , 24 wins and 21 pole positions. Outside of the DTM, Rast also made a name for himself in GT racing, winning prestigious 24-hour races at Spa-Francorchamps (twice), the Nurburgring Nordschleife as well as the ADAC GT Masters title in 2014.

“After so many successful years at Audi, I am looking forward to a new challenge,” said Rast. “I followed what has been going on at BMW M Motorsport in the past years and a long time ago, I took my first steps in motor racing in Formula BMW. Returning to BMW now, almost 20 years later, is a great story and a logical step for me.”

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