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Touring: Thompson withdrawn on medical grounds

22 April 2000

Redstone Team Honda driver James Thompson has had to withdraw from this
weekend's two rounds of the Auto Trader British Touring Car Championship
at Donington Park, Derbyshire, after seeking advice from the series'
official medical officer Dr Paul Trafford.

The 25-year-old Yorkshireman suffered mild concussion at Brands Hatch,
Kent, at fortnight ago when he was involved in an accident that recorded a
12G impact. 

During testing at Donington Park today (Friday, April 21) James set the
quickest time early on in his Accord but was complaining of headaches.
Following a consultation with Dr Trafford, Redstone Team Honda decided to
err on the side of caution and withdraw James from the race weekend.

This will give him the chance to rest properly and return to full fitness
for the next BTCC meeting at Thruxton, Hampshire, on April 30/May 1.

Redstone Team Honda's reserve driver, Dutchman Peter Kox, will replace
James in the Accord for Sunday's two qualifying sessions and Monday's
races.