Motegi won't return for 2012 season

The announcement means the end of a nine-year spell for the championship at the Japanese track, which will host its final IndyCar race on September 18 this year.

"We've enjoyed a great run at Twin Ring Motegi and thank our friends at Mobilityland and Honda Japan for hosting a great event over the past eight years," said Terry Angstadt, president of the commercial division for INDYCAR.

"While our businesses move in different directions, we will keep the door open for future events at the track.

"As INDYCAR and the IndyCar Series continue to evaluate their long-term plans, we must look to build the sport and its viewership. We believe it is important that the final few events on our schedule give us the opportunity to be broadcast live during times that maximize our viewing audience as we build up to the championship.

"We will continue to meet with promoters domestically and internationally that want to pursue an IndyCar Series event."

Motegi has been hosting the race since 2003, an event won by Scott Sharp. The circuit was also the venue of Danica Patrick's maiden, and so far only, win in 2007.

It was also the first international event added to the IndyCar schedule.