Aud𝓀i's Edoardo Mortara believes Russia's first ever DTM race will be a 'resounding success' as the Italian embarks on his third season.

Mortara, who enjoyed his most൲ successful DTM season to date with two victories in 2012, spoke of his enthusiasm for the race during a recent fan event at Moscow's iconic Red Square alongside Audi team mate and former champion Mattias Ekstrom.

The Italian admitted he was surprised by the level of intere🃏st as the series unveiled itself ൩to Russia.

"This was my first visit to Russia. It was really exciting to be standing on Red Square🍒 with the Audi A5 DTM. I was p𒀰articularly surprised about the high interest of the media," said the Italian.

"They [the fans] were clearly thrilled. I haven't signed such a large number ♛of autographs as I did at this🍒 event in a long time."

The 26-year old also expects to see a full house come August 4th when the Moscow Raꦕceway will host the first ever Russian r♋ound.

"After my experiences during this brief visit I'm sure that the race😼 will be a resounding success. The people are obviously very enthusiastic about motorsport. I'm already looking forward toꦛ running there.

♚"I'm definitely expecting to see full grandstands at the race and am already excited about my next visit to this fascinating m෴etropolis," Mortara concluded.

by Simon Evans