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Christian Bakkerud Signs DTM Deal with Futurecome TME

Following the official launch of Audi's DTM lineup for the 2009 season, TME have also confirmed one of their two drivers with whom the team plans to tackle this year's campaign. Former GP2 driver Christian Bakkerud has earned himself a drive in the most powerful touring car series in the world, as the Danish driver will debut on a 2-year old Audi A4 DTM.

Team boss Colin Kolles has decided to switch his attention off of Formula 1, following his early termination of contract with Force India outfit. He therefore decided to take on another challenge in the DTM, in addition to his Formula 3 Euroseries, Le Mans Series and Le Mans 24 Hours plans.

Bakkerud will therefore replace departed Katherine Legge at the wheel of the only 2-year old Audi on the DTM grid this year. However, his new boss is confident that the move would only help the 24-year old racer become a contender in the series in the years to come.

“Markus (Winkelhock), Katherine (Legge) and Alexandre (Premat) are the best proof, that it definitely makes sense to line up in an older car and use this learning year with us as steppingstone to recommend yourself for a newer generation car. We would be happy, if Christian would succeed to match his predecessors,” said Kolles.

Winkelhock has been confirmed as official driver for Audi Team Rosberg earlier this month, while Premat will continue with Audi Team Phoenix for another season. In addition, Legge has been promoted to official race driver for Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline, following her 2008 campaign with TME. All these driver will compete on one-year old Audis in 2009.
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