V8STAR canned for 2004

The series was started in 2001 as a low-cost alternative to the DTM, which was resurrected the year before. Each car had the same spaceframe chassis and engine, and although different bodyshapes are allowed, no manufacturer or model branding was allowed.

Despite attracting decent grids early on, plus quality teams such as Zakspeed and drivers like Karl Wendlinger, Pedro Lamy and Michael Bartels, this year's championship suffered from poor numbers. It also distanced itself from the BERU Top 10 package, but retained its TV deal with German sports channel DSF.

A statement from series organisers read: "To run the series is feasible only with several strong partners. This circumstance is made worse by the present economic conditions. V8STAR regrets this step, however, we are convinced of the fact that this is the correct way."

The V8STAR organisation will use next year to find further partners in order to bring back the championship in 2005. Teams involved in the series were informed about the decision on Friday.

"I find this very unfortunate," said team owner Sven Schnabl. "V8STAR represented a stage between DTC and the DTM for teams and drivers and offered good sport."