Formula One news

McLaren signs Kovalainen for long-term

McLaren has confirmed that Finn Heikki Kovalainen will team up with Lewis Hamilton for the 2008 season. Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa will remain the third driver while Gary Paffett will assist de la Rosa with the testing programme when required.

"We had a number of options open to us and as always we want to make sure that we have the most competitive driver line-up and I think that Lewis and Heikki will be a formidable combination," said Martin Whitmarsh. "Both enjoyed great rookie seasons in 2007 and share a genuine passion for winning and being the best. Heikki made a strong impression and Lewis' performance so far has been outstanding and speaks for itself. I am confident that they will push each other on track and work well together off track. In addition with Pedro remaining our primary test driver alongside Gary, we really have a strong package and look forward to 2008."

26-year-old Heikki, who made his Formula 1 race debut last year with Renault, joins the team on a long-term contract and will commence his on-track programme in early January.

"I am so excited to join a team like McLaren Mercedes," said Heikki. "So far I have been blown away by the dedication and commitment to winning which is clear through the entire organisation and I am really excited about our joint future. As a Finn it's an honour for me to follow in Mika and Kimi's footsteps. I haven't really spent a lot of time with Lewis so far but from what I know I think we will work well together and do our best for the team."

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• 07 Oct.
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  • Rosberg hoping for rain in Japan
• 06 Oct.
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  • Howett confident Toyota can finish fourth
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• 05 Oct.
  • Ecclestone: Vettel will win the championship one day
• 04 Oct.
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• 03 Oct.
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  • Heidfeld hopes for better weather in Japan
  • Raikkonen: this is not my year
• 02 Oct.
  • New role for Briatore at Renault
  • Williams retains Rosberg and Nakajima for 2009
• 01 Oct.
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  • Glock has achieved his first season goal
  • Senna confident of 2009 F1 seat
  • Ferrari keeps both test drivers for 2009
  • Slow penalty decision cost Hamilton win - Whitmarsh
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• 30 Sep.
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  • Moscow to start construction work this week
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• 29 Sep.
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  • Hamilton: We need to stay focussed
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  • Raikkonen concedes title hopes

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