As Audi takes its leave from the WEC, many of its competitors might be glad to see the dominating force depart from the series.
During their time at Le Mans, Audi racked up numerous milestones. They clinched the first victory of a TSI engine back in 2001. In 2006 they snagged the first victory of a TDI engine as well as triumphing in 2012 with the first sports car to use a hybrid powertrain.
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During their 185 races, Audi has had 106 victories with 80 pole positions and enjoys 94 fastest laps. These are only but a few of their accomplishments.
Audi leaves the WEC to pursue other interests in FIA Formula E. This move falls in line with their strategy of being able to offer customers full battery-electric models year-on-year beginning in 2018.
“After 18 years in prototype racing that were exceptionally successful for Audi, it’s obviously extremely hard to leave,” said the head of Audi Motorsport, Wolfgang Ulrich in a press release.
“Audi Sport Team Joest shaped the WEC during this period like no other team. I would like to express my thanks to our squad, to Reinhold Joest and his team, to the drivers, partners and sponsors for this extremely successful cooperation. It’s been a great time,” he concluded.
As mentioned before, some of their competitors are glad to see such a strong force leave. However, Porsche has taken a different approach and decided to put together a special tribute to celebrate all that Audi has achieved.
