Colin Turkington won the title in what was one of the closest finishes to a season that the BTCC has ever seen in its history but yet it looks set that he won’t be there at Thruxton on Easter Sunday to defend his title.

“We have contacted close to 80 companies since Christmas, but haven’t been able to secure anything like the funding required for this season despite the high profile of the BTCC and the 100-plus hours of television coverage the series receives. It is a huge disappointment, but I suppose it is just a reflection of the difficult times all businesses are experiencing.” said Turkington speaking to the Belfast Telegraph.

One of the big factors in Turkingtons failed 2010 funding attempt would be when RAC pulled out of the BTCC as title sponsor of the West Surrey Racing team. Despite this Turkington isn’t going to rule out returning to the BTCC at a later date this season.

“I’m still trying my best to find the funding and West Surrey have a car there for me if something can be sorted out for later in the season, but even if that happens I wouldn’t be in a position to fight for the championship. After the highs of winning last season it is hard to get your head round the fact it is all over — for now at least.”

If Turkington was to drive for WSR then that would mean that West Surrey Racing would be fielding a three car team with Andy Neate and Rob Collard already confirmed for this season.

Photo Credit: Pete Mainey

James Mappin is the editor-in-chief covering the British Touring Car Championship. You can contact him at james@btcccrazy.co.uk, on twitter @BTCCCrazy or on his personal twitter account @jamesmappin.