VAUXHALL are to withdraw their VX Racing team from the British Touring Car Championship at the end of this season.

The British-based outfit cited the global economic downturn for the decision, adding that the absence of other manufacturer entries in the BTCC had also been taken into consideration.

Triple Eight Race Engineering will continue to run three Vectras for reigning double champion Fabrizio Giovanardi, Matt Neal and Andrew Jordan for the remainder of the current campaign.

While the company regrets having to leave the BTCC for 2010, it will keep an option open for a possible return to the sport in future years, the company said in a statement.

Vauxhall Motors marketing director Andy Gilson added: "The company has enjoyed immense success with BTCC, both on track and as a focal marketing activity for the VXR brand.

"However, a number of factors have led us to take the decision to withdraw from the championship at the end of this season.

"I would like to think we can end our run in touring cars with another title-winning season."

Vauxhall have won nine drivers crowns and eight manufacturers titles during a four-decade association with the BTCC, while the company's 120 race victories in the series is second only to Ford.