Gary Paffett will not defend his DTM title in 2006, after agreeing to become an official test driver with McLaren-Mercedes.
Speaking following confirmation of the deal Wednesday, Paffett said he was '100 per cent' committed to his new role and as such will not compete in the DTM next season.
"I'm really excited about this opportunity and the challenges ahead," said the Brit. "This is the culmination of my continuous relationship with
McLaren and Mercedes-Benz. For my efforts to be officially recognised by one of the most successful
Formula One teams and reaching my goal of getting a regular Formula One seat is a fantastic feeling.
"I have really enjoyed my time in the DTM Championship and being able to also continue my relationship with Mercedes-Benz in this manner is the icing on the cake.
"I'm 100 per cent committed to my role as a McLaren Mercedes test driver and can't wait to start the 2006 testing programme. I want to thank everybody who has helped me achieve this goal - it wouldn't have been possible without their support."
Paffett's relationship with McLaren began in December 1999 when he was awarded the prestigious 'McLaren Autosport Young Driver of the Year Award'. As a result of winning the award, Paffett conducted his first
F1 test with McLaren in 2000 and since then he has helped the team with both its testing and simulation work on a regular basis. In 2003 Paffett joined Mercedes-Benz in the DTM Championship and went on to claim the title in 2005.
