Hamilton to miss rest of 2019 season

Nicolas Hamilton will miss the remainder of the 2019 British Touring Car Championship season due to sponsorship complications.

Hamilton, who has competed in this season's championship with the Motorbase Performance Ford outfit, had already lost his secondary sponsor prior to Knockhill but a last minute deal saw the 27-year old remain on the grid for the Scottish round.

However, those sponsorship issues have ultimately cut Hamilton's 2019 campaign short, meaning he will not compete at this weekend's Silverstone round as well as the Brands Hatch season finale in October.

Hamilton took a best finish of 18th place at Snetterton earlier this season behind the wheel of his Motorbase prepared Ford Focus RS.

Motorbase Performance team principal Dave Bartrum praised Hamilton for his efforts this season and believes his performance's 'surprised some people along the way'.

“It’s an unfortunate end to what has been a very positive season for Nic;” said Motorbase Performance boss Bartrum.

“We’ve been on a truly unique journey together this year, and I’m sad that we won’t have the opportunity to complete it.

“It has taken a huge amount of effort, hard work, and determination from Nic to reach the BTCC grid;” he added. “I think he’s shown that he’s a very capable driver, and surprised people along the way.

“Everyone at Motorbase Performance wishes him the very best with his journey and future motor racing career.”

The BTCC enters its final phase of the season this weekend, with rounds 25, 26 and 27 taking place around the National layout of the Silverstone Grand Prix venue.