Petrobras to quit FIA series.

The FIA F3000 scene will be without the distinctive Petrobras livery from next year, following decisions in the company's native Brazil to pull the plug on some motorsport sponsorship.

Petrobras has been linked to the Norfolk-based David Sears-run operation since 1999, primarily promoting Brazilian talent one step closer to Formula One. Antonio Pizzonia and Ricardo Sperafico formed the team's 2001-02 line-up, but it has also run the likes of CART race-winner Bruno Junqueira - who won the FIA title in 2000 - in recent years.

Whilst the company's deals with WilliamsF1 and Jordan are understood to be safe, funding for the David Sears-run Petrobras Junior team is thought to be under fire following the introduction of new tax laws relating to overseas sponsorship. Petrobras has cited economic reasons exacerbated by the newly introduced taxation programme which, it believes, will have an adverse effect on its funding schemes.

The company insists, however that the decision to split with F3000 has been taken reluctantly, and expressed its gratitude to the team for the past successes and dedication. Den Bla Avis Ltd - the team which became Petrobras Junior - reciprocated by thanking the oil giant and its staff for its support over the last four years. Both parties have also agreed that, when conditions allow, there could be opportunities to work together in the future.

The loss of Petrobras backing is not thought likely to prevent Sears from entering a sister team to his Super Nova squad next year, and may open up further opportunities for non-Brazilian drivers to graduate to the F1 support series.

"This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team, which will continue to compete in the FIA International F3000 Championship," read a statement from the Sears operation, "Indeed, this allows us access to the open market for drivers, and discussions with drivers and sponsors are ongoing. Any drivers interested in undertaking any of the winter tests should contact the team as soon as possible."

Super Nova came close to taking the 2002 title with Sebastien Bourdais - and may still do so according to the outcome of Tomas Enge's drugs hearing. Pizzonia scored Petrobras' best result of the year with second place in the season finale.