Fledgling squad Rotek Racing will miss the final event of the 2014 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship after its Audi S3 Saloon suffered significant accident damage at Silverstone two weeks ago.

The Oakley-backed team has worked tirelessly ever since to repair the car but with further structural work needed, Rotek had to admit defeat earlier this evening (Thursday) in their race against the clock to make the event at Brands Hatch.

The news will come as a huge disappointment to Tony Gilham, who had been due to take over driving duties from regular pilot Robb Holland, but also to the rest of the squad as it looked to end its maiden BTCC season on a high.

TOCA officials are satisfied that every attempt has been made by the team to meet its entry obligations and has therefore declared Rotek Racing’s absence as a case of force majeure.