SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 4, 2025 – Audi is speeding into summer with more than just horsepower — it’s claiming titles, turning heads, and inspiring adventure across continents. From a championship-winning performance in New Zealand to an applause-worthy premiere in Paris, the Audi R8 LMS and RS Q e-tron are proving that performance and passion can travel far and wide.
New Zealand Triumph: Where the Track Meets Determination
In the lush and rugged landscapes of New Zealand, Audi’s R8 LMS #27 car — fielded by International Motorsport and driven by Sam Fillmore and Jonny Reid — took center stage in the North Island Endurance Series. The duo didn’t just compete; they dominated, delivering Audi’s first major titles of the 2025 motorsport season.
This wasn’t just about speed — it was about consistency, teamwork, and the legendary reliability of the R8 LMS, a race car that bridges the thrill of professional motorsport with cutting-edge Audi engineering. For endurance fans, it was a reminder that success on the circuit is often built on trust in both machine and man.
Why This Win Matters for Everyday Drivers
While most of us won’t be taking hairpin turns at 200 km/h, victories like these influence the cars we drive every day. The Audi R8 LMS shares DNA with its road-going sibling, the R8 — meaning lessons from the racetrack often find their way into better traction, smarter handling, and more exhilarating everyday driving.
It’s Audi’s way of saying: whether you're on the school run or a scenic mountain pass, you’re driving a car shaped by champions.
Italian Touring Thrills: Private Teams, Big Impact
Meanwhile, in Italy, Audi’s private teams are spicing up the TCR touring car series. Even at the halfway mark of the season, they’re already proving to be the bar against which others are measured. The variety of private Audi teams on the grid reflects how versatile the R8 LMS platform is — adaptable, durable, and highly competitive even without factory backing.
This grassroots motorsport vibe resonates deeply with fans, especially those who appreciate underdog grit paired with German engineering.
From the Racetrack to the Red Carpet: The Paris Premiere
Taking a sharp turn from asphalt to artistry, Audi also celebrated the debut of its “Dakar Chronicles” film in the heart of Paris. This cinematic tribute to the RS Q e-tron — Audi’s trailblazing electric rally car — drew a captivated audience and plenty of applause.
Set against the backdrop of the iconic Dakar Rally, the film highlights Audi’s push to redefine what's possible in off-road racing with electric technology. It’s storytelling with sparks, literally.
A Quick Look at the Stars of the Show
Here’s how the R8 LMS and RS Q e-tron compare in their real-world benefits:
- Audi R8 LMS
- Built For: Endurance racing, private teams, high-speed consistency
- Key Benefit: Transfers race-winning tech to production vehicles
- Who Loves It: Weekend warriors, GT fans, motorsport purists
- Audi RS Q e-tron
- Built For: Rally raids like Dakar, pushing EVs to their limits
- Key Benefit: Pioneers electric innovation in extreme environments
- Who Loves It: Tech enthusiasts, adventure seekers, eco-performance fans
What It Means for Audi Lovers Worldwide
Whether you're following race results, watching high-octane films, or simply eyeing your next dream car, Audi's 2025 season has already delivered thrills, wins, and inspiration. And with half the year still ahead, the brand's global presence — from New Zealand’s circuits to Parisian premieres — shows no signs of slowing down.
Learn more at audi.com