Murray out of Brands opener

Eoin Murray will not race in Brands Hatch’s opening rounds tomorrow after a qualifying accident badly damaged his Quest Racing Alfa Romeo 156.

Murray crashed into the barriers at Clearways after losing control of his 156 when its front suspension broke.

“I’m gutted – I’m confident we could have qualified inside the top eight,” said the 24-year-old Irishman. “It was only my second flying lap and the car already felt fantastic – a lot better than the last time we were here.

“Then the right front bottom wishbone snapped going through the corner, broke through the brake pipe and that only left me with rear brakes. It swapped ends instantly and I was a passenger.

“We’re on such a tight budget that we don’t have any spares. It’s so disappointing because I reckon we’d have been good for three top ten finishes tomorrow.

“Even though I won’t be racing, I’ll still stay around for the Pit Lane Walkabout for the fans.”