LOS ANGELES: Fast & Furious 8, the sequel to Furious 7 and currently the fifth highest-grossing film ever, has no director.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, franchise veteran Justin Lin and Furious 7 helmer James Wan have both passed on directing the sequel, which has been slotted for release on April 14, 2017.

Wan has apparently opted to make The Conjuring 2: The Enfield Poltergeist, whereas Lin has his hands full with Star Trek Beyond.

While a search for a new director remains ongoing, producer Neal H Moritz was quick to deny suggestions that Vin Diesel’s demanding nature caused trouble with Wan on the Furious 7 set.

“Obviously, if there was any issue, we wouldn’t be making the eighth film with Diesel right now,” the producer insisted.

Universal added, “The studio and filmmakers loved working with James on Furious 7, but he was never in the mix for an eighth film due to a scheduling conflict with The Conjuring 2.

“We are actively casting and searching for the right director for the next chapter of the franchise.”Diesel previously hinted that the eighth instalment of the Fast & Furious series will likely take place in New York — after spanning the globe for the last movie. Furious 7 baddie Jason Statham is also expected to return as Deckard Shaw.