Paffett extends Mercedes DTM deal

Gary Paffett will continue to be a Mercedes driver in the DTM in 2015, the team has confirmed.

Paffett is the first Mercedes driver to be officially announced for 2015. Confirmation of his place in the team came as part of an announcement that European electronic retailer Euronics has extended its sponsorship deal with Mercedes for next season.

The 2015 season will be Paffett's 12th in the DTM, the Briton having made his debut with Mercedes back in 2003, and competed in every season since except for 2006. In that time he has won 19 DTM races, more than any other driver, and was crowned champion in 2005.

It remains unclear exactly how many C-Coupes will be on the grid next season, with Mercedes yet to confirm its expansion to eight cars, despite pressure from rival manufacturers Audi and BMW.