Hugo Valente has cited a desire to spend more time with his daughter as one of the main reasons for his decision to retire from racing with immediate effect, after giving up his drive in the TCR International Series.
Valente had signed to join Craft-Bamboo Racing for the 2017 season, racing a SEAT León for the Anglo-Hong-Kong team.
But after just eight rounds and two podium finishes, the Frenchman has decided to call time on his racing career, for a number of reasons. He will be replaced by Brit Dan Lloyd in the team.
“First of all I’d like to thank Lukoil Craft-Bamboo Racing for giving me this opportunity,” said Valente. “Everyone in the team does an amazing job and made me feel very much at home in such a short period of time.
“Unfortunately, the results were not as I expected so I’ve decided to step away from the sport.
“I have my own family to take care of now, my little girl is nine months old and nothing makes me happier than being with her.
“I want to give her the same life I’ve been given from my parents and I know that’s nearly impossible to do as a racing driver.”
The 24-year-old, who until last season also raced in the World Touring Car Championship with the factory LADA team, passed on his thanks to those he has met during his years in racing.
“I’d like to thank everyone I’ve ever worked with throughout my young career,” added Valente. “It’s been a great experience overall and I have met some incredibly passionate people.
“Racing teaches us values from the youngest age and with those values I believe it’s time to put an end to it and move forward.
“Thank You.”
Craft-Bamboo Racing CEO Richard Coleman added that he was unable to convince to see out the season, with Valente instead deciding to hang up his helmet before this weekend’s races at the Salzburgring.
“We are disappointed to be losing Hugo at this stage of the season, as he is one of the most naturally talented drivers I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” added Coleman.
“I tried to convince Hugo to stay until the end of the season but his mind was made up, and I think once you have lost your motivation it is very hard to compete at this level.”