Tom Onslow-Cole has confirmed that he will not be competing in the 2014 British Touring Car Championship season, with the 26-year-old exploring opportunities outside the UK and in Sportscar racing.
Onslow-Cole has competed in the BTCC since the 2007 season, starting 190 races and achieving seven victories and 36 podiums. During his seven-year spell in the series Onslow-Cole drove for six teams, including WSR, Triple Eight, Arena Motorsport, AmD Tuning, Team BMR and most recently Motorbase Performance.
Onslow-Cole’s best season came in 2010 when he finished fourth overall in the championship and was in outright title contention until the final round.
The Kingston-upon-Thames racer admitted that he had taken the conscious decision not to race in the championship again in 2014.
“The British Touring Car Championship has been my home for many years and I still believe it is one of the greatest series in the world,” said Onslow-Cole. “I had a serious opportunity to race in the championship again this year, with, what I believe, is a team capable of winning the title. However, after much thought, I’ve decided to explore some other options outside of the BTCC.
“I’ve been looking into sportscar racing since the start of last year when the chance to test and compete in an Aston Martin Vantage GT3 came my way. Since then I’ve raced in Dubai 24 Hours and am looking to continue this momentum with some further GT outings.”
Onslow-Cole did not, however, rule out a return to the series in the future.
“That said, this isn’t the end of me and the BTCC. I have unfinished business here and I’m sure I’ll be back one day to complete the job. For now, I’m widening my experience as a driver and exploring what could be some very exciting career opportunities.
“I’d like to thank TOCA, all the fans, the teams and my sponsors that have supported me throughout the last 10 years. It’s been an awesome ride and I hope the next 10 years live up to it.”