One of the most recognisable names in British motorsport is set to join the British Touring Car Championship package, with Nicolas Hamilton, brother of 2008 Formula One World Champion Lewis, signing up to compete in the 2011 Elf Renault Clio Cup.
Nicolas, who has cerebal palsy, has announced a deal to make his motorsport debut in the one-make saloon car championship with Total Control Racing. After gaining his MSA Competition National B racing license last week, Hamilton, who is described by his brother as his biggest fan and his greatest inspiration, has begun initial runs in a 2010 specification Clio ahead of a full testing schedule.
The 19 year old from Hertfordshire said: “I have loved motor sport from a young age and watching my brother achieve so much has given me inspiration to make my own racing debut.”
“I know this will not be an easy task, but I hope that my doing this will give inspiration to others who have challenges in their life,” he says. “I can't wait to be racing.”
The deal was organised by his father Anthony, who commented: “Nicolas has followed his brother's career from an early age and it was natural that he would want to get behind the wheel competitively himself.
“The Renault Clio Cup offers a tremendous platform for him, with great television coverage and exposure and I'm sure it will be highly enjoyable too.”
Multiple Clio championship winning outfit TCR will run Nicolas, with team principal Lee Brookes adding: “Nicolas has superb passion for motor racing and great support behind him so it is a great honour for Total Control Racing that he will be racing with us.”
