more on the role of audi sport uk in the le mans effort

[Eaton Dave <dave.eaton@minedu.govt.nz>]

and more indications on the size of audi's budget for the le mans
effort......

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Audi's all-new 1999 Le Mans contender will be run by four-time race winner
Joest Racing. 

 We aimed from the beginning to work with Joest.' said Audi motorsport boss
Dr Wolfgang Ullrich, 'but because the team is so closely linked with
Porsche, we thought it wouldn't be possible.' 

Joest team manager Ralf Juttner was also pleased about the decision.   'It
was nice to know that we were top of Audi's list.' He said. 'It means that
we have a full programme for the first time since the finish of the ITC. (in
which Joest ran four Opels).' 
 
Audi decided against using one of its existing touring car squads, such as
Audi Sport UK, because it wanted a team with extensive sportscar experience.


Audi Sport UK will however, play a part in the Le Mans programme by
supporting the building and developing of the car.' 

Audi also confirmed that designer Tony Southgate has joined its team, as
predicted by Autosport. The veteran will act as Ullrich's personal technical
advisor.