Back operation rules out Dextra Racing driver in Hampshire

Dextra Racing will not contest rounds 7, 8 and 9 of the 2015 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship after receiving confirmation that driver Alex Martin will undergo a back operation next week.

The Jack Sears Trophy contender has had a long-standing problem after suffering from two badly slipped discs, and will now undertake a routine microdiscectomy procedure to correct the problem, ruling him out of the event in Hampshire.

“It’s obviously frustrating but in many ways I’m excited about finally getting back to 100 per cent fitness,” said Martin. “It’s an old injury – one that I thought I could nurse through to the winter – but I’ve just been in so much pain that I had to make the decision to have surgery now.”

Despite the setback Martin is hopeful of contesting the Oulton Park event in June, as long as his body recovers well and responds positively to a programme of physiotherapy.

“It’s a shame to miss my home event of course,” said the Dorset-based driver. “I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the BTCC but in truth I haven’t felt like I could perform to the best of my ability due to the injury. I haven’t really been able to sleep and I’m in too much pain when I drive, so it’s best that we get it right and come back stronger for the rest of the season.”

The news means that 28 cars will line-up on the grid at Thruxton next weekend (9/10 May).