Bell sits out 2010 BTCC season

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Mon 25th January 2010 Martyn Bell has today confirmed that he will not contest the 2010 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship, with two long-term injuries taking their toll on the Barrow-upon-Humber racer.

Bell's announcement follows confirmation from doctors that he will require surgery on the back injury he has been carrying since being involved in a heavy accident during a BTCC race at Snetterton in 2008, while examinations into hip pain he has been suffering since a fall on holiday last summer have revealed a fracture which will also need further treatment.

Bell said, "It's been common knowledge that I have been carrying an injury since July, but after extensive tests and treatment following the final round of the season at Brands Hatch, it has now been discovered that I suffered a fracture in my hip, and have now developed arthritis. Added to the fact that I also require surgery on a long-standing back injury, I've been forced into the difficult decision to sit out the 2010 season.

"It's not a decision I have taken lightly, but in reality, I had no option. My sponsors and backers fully understand the reasons behind the decision and have already said that they will continue to support me despite this setback. To have that level of support behind me is fantastic and I thank them all for it, and I fully intend to be back in the BTCC in 2011.

"I was looking forward to 2010 and am obviously disappointed that I won't be able to race this season, but it has reached the stage where I am in pain driving my road car, so surgery is the only option. I'm also gutted that I've been told not to ride my Motocross bike anymore and I'm not sure I’ll manage a round of golf for a while, which is a right pain as I just bought some new clubs!"

Bell's absence from the 2010 BTCC currently leaves Team Sunshine.co.uk with just Paul O'Neill confirmed to drive one of its Honda Integras.