O’Neill diagnosed with diabetes - 08/03/04

Fans’ favourite Paul O’Neill will not be racing in the BTCC in 2004. The former VX Racing driver has recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, ruling him out of racing in the immediate future.

In a statement on his official website (www.owyracing.com), Paul said:

“Just thought I would keep you all informed on what has been happening lately. Unfortunately I haven't been very well and ended up in hospital at the beginning of February as I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I am now just getting used to using my needles and things and easing myself back into training.

“I'm not going to be fit to start the season as I need my blood to stabilise so I can be granted a race licence. I haven't given up racing and I hope to be back soon. Hopefully there will be more openings when I'm fit enough, as we all know there are not many feasible options out there at this moment in time.”

Paul’s charisma and displays of raw emotion have won him an army of fans over the past three seasons in the BTCC, and all at BTCCPages.com offer him our best wishes.