Reigning champion Andrew Jordan was forced to miss qualifying on medical grounds after enduring a high-speed accident in the opening free practice session at Snetterton earlier this morning.

Overnight rain made for tricky conditions during the early running and Jordan crashed heavily having just set his fastest time of the session. Keen to push and improve further Jordan slightly outbraked himself at the still slippery turn one and his car speared off into the barrier.

Jordan gingerly emerged from his significantly damaged Honda Civic and was later taken to hospital after showing some signs of concussion. He was released from the local hospital after a thorough check-up and arrived back at the circuit for further assessment by the BTCC medical team. It was subsequently decided as a precaution that Jordan would be not be deemed fit to drive and he was forced to sit out qualifying.

The medical team will reassess Jordan on Sunday morning, where if passed fit he’ll be able to start the opening race from the back of the grid.

“I’m gutted,” said Jordan. “I would’ve loved to have been out there but I have to listen to doctors orders. I do feel a bit tired and groggy so I think it’s best that I get a good rest tonight and come back tomorrow. It’s frustrating of course but I hope to get the all-clear in the morning and I’ll be on a mission!”