2009 Tour of Georgia is scrapped

The Tour of Georgia, one of American's cycling's most prestigious events, has been cancelled for next season.

Created in 2003, the Tour has failed to secure regular sponsors since Lance Armstrong's retirement in 2005.

The Texan, who announced his return to professional cycling in September, did not include Georgia in his 2009 plans.

"I'm disappointed that the 2009 Tour has been cancelled, but very pleased that it will return in 2010," said USA Cycling boss Steve Johnson.

In a statement, organisers said: "The planning process for the Tour of Georgia requires a tremendous amount of time and effort.

"We wanted to give all of our partners enough time to plan and allocate their resources to take full advantage of the event. Therefore, we will skip 2009."

Seven-time Tour de France winner Armstrong took the Georgia title in 2004.