Madonna is to extend her Sticky & Sweet world tour this summer with additional dates across Europe.

The new dates will see Madonna perform in cities that were left off the first leg.

The confirmation follows intense speculation that the singer planned to tour again in 2009.

“We are happy to confirm that the rumors are true: Madonna has decided to extend her Sticky & Sweet Tour,” a statement on the singer's website said.

Madonna is expected to confirm her full itinerary for the tour later this week.

The first leg of the tour called in 17 countries and was named the biggest tour of 2008, grossing $282million in five months.

The tour featured four sections: 'Pimp', 'Old School', 'Gypsy' and 'Rave'.

Each section took in a different era, beginning with a mashed up homage to 1920's deco and modern day gangsta pimp.

(by Jason Gregory)