Alex Martin to miss Thruxton due to back surgery

Alex Martin will miss the third meeting of the British Touring Car Championship at Thruxton in order to undergo a back operation.

The Team Parker Racing driver has a history of back issues as a result of suffering two slipped discs and will undertake a routine microdisectomy procedure to correct the problem.

“It’s obviously frustrating but in many ways I’m excited about finally getting back to 100 per cent fitness,” said Martin, who is chasing the Jack Sears Trophy this season. “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.”

The Dorset-based driver will miss rounds 7, 8 and 9 of the championship at Thruxton on May 10th, meaning only 28 cars will line up at the fastest circuit on the calendar. However, Martin is aiming to return to action at Oulton Park in June, assuming his body recovers in time following a physiotherapy programme.

“It’s a shame to miss my home event of course,” Martin added. “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.”