A1-Ring not included on 2009 calendar

Austrian energy drinks giant Red Bull has plans to restore the former grand prix venue, which hosted three DTM rounds between 2001 and '03 before it was demolished more than four years ago.

And while the series has signalled its interest in returning to the venue, Hans Werner Aufrecht, chairman of DTM's rights holder and promoter, ITR, has indicated that he wanted next year's calendar to reflect continuity.

"The co-operation with all the circuits has been excellent, therefore, it goes
without saying that we are going to return to the venues that have been staging DTM
rounds in 2008," said Aufrecht.

"Continuity represented the top priority for us while planning the new season, consequently, we want to keep on supporting the successful development of every race on the calendar."

The only significant change to the 2009 calendar is that Oschersleben, which hosted round two of the 2008 season, has been moved back to the end of the six-week summer break, on July 19.

26th April         Hockenheim (D)
3rd May            Mugello (I)
17th May           Lausitzring (D)
05th July          Norisring (D)
19th July          Oschersleben (D)
02nd August        Zandvoort (NL)
16th August        Nürburgring (D)
30th August        Brands Hatch (GB)
20th September     Catalunya (E)
4th October        Le Mans (F)