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Thommo quits Vauxhall

VX Racing has confirmed that James Thompson will quit the works Vauxhall British Touring Car Championship team at the end of the season. The Yorkshireman is known to be in negotiations with the Autodelta Alfa Romeo team to drive in the 2005 FIA World Touring Car Championship

The team claims it is close to signing a replacement for Thompson, who is currently leading the BTCC drivers' points standings and is mixed up in a bitter rivalry with team-mate Yvan Muller who will stay with Vauxhall in 2005. West Surrey Racing's MG driver Colin Turkington, who has consistently impressed this season, is favourite to land the drive although Shaun Watson-Smith has also been connected to the seat.

"It's great for VX Racing to have a new driver coming to the team," said VX Racing brand manager Stuart Harris. "It will certainly change the dynamics of the team and give us new impetus.

"Vauxhall is not only focused on going out to win the championship but also with developing up and coming talent. With James going, it has left an opportunity for another driver. We are close to finalising James' replacement."

Through a statement, VX Racing expressed its gratitude and thanks to Thompson who won the 2002 drivers' title with them and was part of the team for all three of its manufacturer titles in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

"James has been driving in the BTCC for over ten years now, so it is understandable that he wants to move on to pursue new goals and opportunities," said Harris. "Of course, VX Racing is sorry to lose a driver of James's class and ability; he has helped Vauxhall achieve considerable success of the past few years. We wish him the best of luck in whatever he chooses to do next."

Thompson is midway through a four-meeting deal with Autodelta this year. But so far there has been no confirmation from either Thompson or the Italian team as to whether he has an agreement for next year. "The decision to go was not an easy one," said Thompson, "but I now have the opportunity to take stock of all of the options that are open to me.

"I would like to thank Vauxhall for their loyalty and commitment over the years. I've had my most successful seasons with them and it has been great to be part of a championship winning team for so many years."

A decision on whether VX Racing will run a third car next year is yet to be made.

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