Sam Tordoff to sit out remainder of 2019 season

Sam Tordoff has confirmed that he will sit out the remainder of the British Touring Car Championship season following the death of his newborn son earlier this month.

Tordoff missed the Knockhill meeting after Arlo passed away at just five days old, with Mike Bushell stepping in to replace him at the wheel of his Cobra Sport AmD-run Honda Civic Type R.

In a new statement, Tordoff took time to thank people for their support following the tragic news, and confirmed that he will not return to the series for the upcoming rounds at Silverstone and Brands Hatch.

Bushell will now continue in his place for the final two meetings of the year.

“Georgie and I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the messages of support that we have received since announcing the passing of our son Arlo George,” he said.

“The outpouring of love has been truly humbling, and it’s comforting to know that people are thinking of us, and remembering Arlo George, particularly within the motorsport fraternity.

“Our time is now focused on coming to terms with losing Arlo as a family, and a return to the BTCC is not something that I can consider at this point in time.

“Shaun and the whole AmD squad have been hugely supportive of our situation, and it was really lovely to see the team celebrate Rory’s first home win at Knockhill last weekend. We know how much that means to them all.

“We’d like to extend our thanks to Mike Bushell who stepped up last weekend in very difficult circumstances and to wish him and the whole team the very best of luck with the remainder of the season.

“We’re also grateful for the offers of donations in Arlo’s honour, and will confirm fundraising details in due course.”