Same reasons as to why Honda quit earlier. Nothing to gain from a business point of view...

BERLIN - BMW Sauber confirmed on Wednesday that they will pull out of Formula One at the end of what has been a disastrous season for the German car manufacturer.

"The BMW Group will not continue its Formula One campaign after the end of the 2009 season," BMW chairman Norbert Reithofer said.

"Of course, this was a difficult decision for us, but it's a resolute step in view of our company's strategic realignment," he said.

"Premium will be increasingly defined in terms of sustainability and environmental compatibility. This is an area in which we want to remain in the lead.

"We are continually reviewing all projects and initiatives to check them for future viability and sustainability. Our Formula One campaign is thus less a key promoter for us."

The announcement makes the German car group the second major manufacturer to pull out of the sport following Honda's withdrawal in December.

BMW have had a poor campaign with drivers Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica giving the team just eight points this season from ten Grand Prix to leave them eighth in the nine-team constructors' championship.