BRANDS HATCH has added another major international event to its 2006 calendar by confirming that the German DTM series will visit the Kent circuit on July 2.

It will be the first opportunity since 2003 for British fans to enjoy the dramatic action of the world’s fastest touring car series, and the start of a three-year agreement for Brands.

With Audi having just confirmed its participation for the next three years, a titanic battle with Mercedes is guaranteed with these incredible machines that feature the most sophisticated technology to be seen in touring car racing.

Phenomenal performance is backed up with a stunning driver line up – former F1 stars Mika Hakkinen and Jean Alesi are just two of the drivers Kent-born Gary Paffett beat to the 2005 title.

Motorsport Vision chief executive Jonathan Palmer said: "I am thrilled that we have been able to conclude an agreement to host the British round of the DTM at Brands Hatch next July.

"I was extremely impressed with the quality of the cars and the show when I visited an event recently.

"And then when I saw the sensational spectacle of the DTM Mercedes at Snetterton for the McLaren Autosport BRDC Award, I knew that we really must have these awesome cars at Brands Hatch.

"Of course such quality of machinery attracts some of the best drivers in the world, and to have Mika Hakkinen racing at Brands along with Gary Paffett and the numerous other stars will be a great privilege."