Augusto Farfus to take on new challenges in GT racing with BMW from 2019 – Farewell to the DTM.

Munich. Augusto Farfus (BRA) will embark on a new chapter in
his successful racing career next season, when he will switch the
focus of his commitment as a BMW works driver solely to GT racing.
The Brazilian, who drove for BMW in the DTM from 2012 to 2018,
during which time he won four races, will race with the BMW M8 GTE
in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) and in many
prestigious GT events around the world with the BMW M6 GT3. These
include the Nürburgring 24 Hours (GER) and the FIA GT World Cup in
Macau (CHN).

 

“In 2011, Augusto Farfus was one of the first drivers we brought on
board for our DTM comeback the following year – and he has established
himself as a top DTM driver in his seven seasons in the series,” said
BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. “Who could forget the 2013
season, when he was in contention for much of the year before
eventually finishing as runner-up. We obviously respect Augusto’s
decision not to continue to race in the DTM, however, he remains a
valuable member of the BMW family. Together we have decided to
integrate him even more intensely in our GT programme next year, as
well as in the WEC ‘Super Season’. Augusto is one of the world’s very
best GT racing drivers. We would like to continue our success story
together, which began back in 2007, in 2019 and beyond.”

 

“The decision to turn my back on the DTM was obviously not one that I
took lightly,” said Farfus. “It is arguably the best touring car
series in the world and I have always felt very comfortable in the DTM
family and BMW teams. I have learned a lot, been able to demonstrate
my speed, and even challenged for the title. It has been an amazing
time. However, anyone who knows me also knows how much I love GT
racing. I felt that it was time to embark on a new chapter. I am very
grateful to BMW for accepting my decision and giving me the
opportunity to continue to drive BMW race cars at the very highest
level. I am really looking forward to 2019.”

 

Farfus contested 104 races over the course of his DTM career. He
claimed four wins, started from pole position six times and made 13
appearances on the podium. In 2013, in his most successful season, he
finished runner-up in the Drivers’ Championship. In 2019, he will
continue to drive the BMW M8 GTE for BMW Team MTEK in the FIA World
Endurance Championship. He will also be in action at the wheel of the
BMW M6 GT3.