MS RACING will tackle the challenge of defending their title in the 2013 ADAC GT Masters season under a different manufacturer's banner. After winning driver and team title in 2012 with the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3, the champions are now going over to the Audi R8 LMS ultra. MS RACING team boss Harald Böttner gives his reasons for the switch in the following interview.

How did the change of brand come about?

Harald Böttner: "Selling cars is the cornerstone of our business, and we operate two Volkswagen/Audi dealerships in the Black Forest area of Germany. As far as Audi goes, we are also Audi R8 service agents. We have enjoyed especially good relations with Audi for a good many years. So, with that kind of background, it makes complete sense for us to now put Audi on the ADAC GT Masters grid."

What led you to go for the Audi R8?

"We believe that the Audi R8 LMS ultra is a very fine vehicle. After some aerodynamic and technical fine-tuning of the R8 for the 2013 season, we are certain that we have the makings of a winning car in the ADAC GT Masters. We won through against more than 30 identical vehicles in the 2009 Porsche Carrera Cup and secured the title. Last year, we usually had the quickest Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in the ADAC GT Masters and claimed two titles. With this switch to the Audi R8 LMS ultra, we aim to prove that we can be just as quick in a car that has a very different design, a mid-engine sports car. For the team and our engineers, the Audi R8 LMS ultra represents a fresh challenge that is always most invigorating."

Will leaving Mercedes-Benz be a wrench after two really successful years?

"We were very pleased with the Mercedes AMG that provided such a good opportunity to get into the GT3 sports scene with the Mercedes SLS AMG GT3's racing debut in 2011. I am sure that the SLS would have given us an excellent chance in this year's ADAC GT Masters to be up there with the front-runners once again, but it was a commercial decision ultimately, since we are Audi dealers."

When do joint operations with Audi commence?

"We are already working with Audi and will be taking delivery of two new R8 LMS ultras next week. And then in March, we will undertake a 14-day test programme in Southern Europe."

Have you already decided who will compete in the two Audis?

"We are currently holding discussions. However, one thing is for sure, there will be a very remarkable new young driver in the team! A couple of last year's drivers will again be in the squad, but generally speaking, we will continue with our philosophy of going all out for the title with one car, whilst giving young drivers a chance to show what they can do in the other."