Texas race confirmed through 2009

But the circuit said its long-term relationship with the IRL depended on the future shape of the series' calendar and television package.

"The length of the agreement and its conclusion following the 2009 season coincides with the Indy Racing League's contracts with broadcast partner ABC/ESPN and another series venue, The Milwaukee Mile," said a TMS statement.

"That timing is paramount for Texas Motor Speedway, which will have the opportunity to evaluate the new television package and future race schedule of the IndyCar Series before making a decision on hosting future IndyCar Series events."

Texas has been part of the IRL schedule since 1997, and was the first stop on the calendar after the Indianapolis 500 until 2006, when an additional date was inserted to fill the fortnight gap between Indy and Texas.

That race was held at Watkins Glen in 2006, before Milwaukee took the date for this season.

"We have proudly and loyally featured IRL IndyCar Series races as key parts of our schedules - oftentimes when other race tracks refused - and are pleased to have reached an agreement to continue in 2008 and 2009," said TMS president Eddie Gossage.

"There is no greater race year-in and year-out on the American racing schedule than the IRL IndyCar Series under the lights at Texas Motor Speedway.

"We hope the IRL's new TV contract and schedule for 2010 and beyond make it such that Texas Motor Speedway can continue to be 'The Second Home of the Indy Racing League.'"