LEWIS Hamilton’s brother Nicolas has teamed with Thurrock based AmD Tuning to become the first disabled competitor to participate in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

The 22 year old, who lives with the neurological condition Cerebral Palsy, will enter five race meetings during the 2015 BTCC season, competing in an Audi S3 with AmD Tuning.

And he cannot wait to get started.

"I am incredibly excited to be racing in the BTCC with AmD Tuning this year," said Hamilton.

"The BTCC is the top national motorsport series here in the UK and having the opportunity to race at that level is the biggest challenge I’ve taken on in my career to date.

“I’m coming into the Championship with a lot to learn and my expectations are to develop as a driver as my programme across the season progresses.
 
"I’m also hoping to inspire others to strive for their own personal goals, whatever their situation in life.

“Anyone can exceed expectations in one way or another and I hope to prove that when I race alongside, not just able-bodied drivers, but the best Touring Car drivers in the UK."

Hamilton will begin his 2015 race programme at Croft circuit on the weekend of 27/28 June, before continuing his season at Snetterton, Rockingham and Silverstone.

His season will then conclude at Brands Hatch during the final round of the Championship.

And Shaun Hollamby, team principal of AmD Tuning is thrilled to have Hamilton on board.
 

"We are pleased to announce that Nicolas has joined the AmD Tuning team,” said Hollamby.

“The BTCC is a fiercely competitive series with hard wheel-to-wheel racing action on track and we have developed Nicolas’s 2015 programme to ensure he enters the Championship with a level of preparation.
 
"We have a number of test sessions over the coming months, which will enable Nicolas to acclimatise to the car.

“Having observed Nicolas racing in the Renault Clio Cup and the ETCC, we know he is quick learner and a strong competitor, and we’re looking forward to working with him this season."

Hamilton has been provided with guest status to compete at five events but, as he does not hold a TOCA BTCC licence this season he will not be eligible for points in the championship.