Brands Hatch will now definitely not be included on the 2009 World Superbike calendar after the FIM released its final schedule for the series last night - but the legendary Imola circuit is back and replaces Vallelunga.

Thousands of British fans will no doubt be disappointed by the news that the sport’s most popular race isn’t happening next year but Brands Hatch bosses have promised a racing spectacular in the summer to make up for it.

Imola, meanwhile, has undergone a refurbishment this year which includes a new pit complex and revised layout which sees the track slowed down between the last and first corners.

2009 World Superbike Calendar:

March 01 Australia Phillip Island
March 14 * Qatar Doha/Losail
April 5 Spain Valencia
April 26 Netherlands Assen
May 10 Italy Monza
May 17 South Africa Kyalami
May 31 United States Salt Lake City
June 21 San Marino Misano
June 28 Great-Britain Donington Park
July 26 Czech Republic Brno
September 6 Germany Nürburgring
September 27 Italy Imola
October 4 France Magny-Cours
October 25 Portugal Portimão

* : Saturday race