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Rubens Barrichello has announced that he will leave IndyCar to race in Brazil's Stock Car V8 series in 2013.

The most experienced driver in Formula 1 history had been expected to make the switch after contesting several late-season rounds of his national tin-top championship.

He will drive for Peugeot squad Full Time Sports.

"After my 20-plus years representing Brazil racing all over the world, it is time to come home," said Barrichello.

"It will be amazing to race in my home country again, while allowing me to be closer to family. I have much enthusiasm for what this perfect fit will bring."

Barrichello had initially intended to continue in IndyCar for 2013, and was strongly linked to a seat alongside Simon Pagenaud at Schmidt-Hamilton Motorsports.

But as the off-season dragged on with Barrichello still struggling to put together an IndyCar funding package, the chance of him returning to Brazilian racing grew stronger.

Eleven-time grand prix winner Barrichello's move from F1 to IndyCar was greeted with great excitement, but his rookie season with KV Racing Technology did not live up to expectations as he finished only 12th in the championship.

The V8 series is attracting a growing number of Brazilian racers with international reputations.

The 2012 grid included ex-F1 men Antonio Pizzonia, Ricardo Zonta and Luciano Burti plus former IndyCar/Champ Car racers Vitor Meira, Max Wilson and Ricardo Sperafico, with guest appearances from the likes of Raphael Matos, Helio Castroneves and Tony Kanaan as well as Barrichello.