Vaulkhard calls time on 2010 campaign

The 24-year-old Briton lies fifth in the Independents' Trophy after winning his class at Monza and taking three other podiums this year.

But the withdrawal of a personal sponsor has left the former BTCC racer with no option but to step down from driving duties.

"I'm disappointed, of course," Vaulkhard told AUTOSPORT. "But I've just run out of budget because one of my personal sponsors has had to pull out.

"I'd been on a race-by-race deal for the last few events, but there's no more money so I've got to take a back seat.

"I can't fault the team at all. They've been absolutely excellent and this year was really the first year since [the SEAT Cupra Cup in] 2007 when everything was really working for me. It's a shame."

Vaulkhard will continue to attend WTCC events with the squad and is hopeful of finding the backing to return to the seat of one of the team's Chevrolet Lacettis for the final two rounds at Okayama and Macau.

"That's one angle we're looking at. Interest is pretty good in the championship in Asia, so hopefully we can put something together," he added. "The main aim is race for the team again in the WTCC in 2011."

Bamboo team principal Richard Coleman said that he was disappointed that Vaulkhard could not complete the season alongside Darryl O'Young.

"Harry has showed some tremendous pace and raced well this season," he said. "It's a real shame to lose him at a point where he is really coming on strong and in with a genuine shot at finishing in the top three independents at the end of the season."