The GP2 Series and the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve have signed an agreement, which will see the series make its racing debut next year in Portugal, it was confirmed today.

The Algarve track will host the last round of the 2009 GP2 Series championship, with the date to be announced shortly.

"I am very pleased to be adding Algarve to our race calendar," said GP2 Series organiser, Bruno Michel. "On top of displaying and developing tomorrow's talents, our aim also includes new venues that will generate track action as well as meet our security standards.

"The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve has made a tremendous job into providing us with a track that delivers everything a high-level category needs. I am really looking forward to the first event."

"I am delighted that the GP2 Series have chosen to conclude their 2009 season at our track," added Paulo Pinheiro, Autódromo Internacional do Algarve director.

"It rewards our hard work and dedication to build a circuit that can welcome such a prestigious category. This is a great honour and we are now entirely focused on finalising every detail before welcoming GP2 next year."