FORMULA ONE'S worst-kept secret has finally been confirmed,
with Fernando Alonso joining Ferrari from next year.
The double world champion, 28, has signed
a three-year deal and will partner Felipe Massa.
Giancarlo Fisichella is set to take up
the role of test and reserve driver.
Kimi Raikkonen, who has spent the last
three years at Ferrari, is expected to return to McLaren,
with BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica moving to Renault to fill
the void created by Alonso's exit.
Ferrari team boss Stefano Domenicali
said: "We are very proud to welcome to our team another
winning driver, who has demonstrated his amazing talent by
winning two world championships in his career to date.
"Of course, we wish to thank Kimi for
everything he has done during his time with Ferrari.
"In his first year with us he managed to
win the drivers' title, thus making his contribution to
Ferrari's history, and he played a vital role in our taking
of the constructors' title in 2007 and 2008.
"Even during a difficult season like this
one, he has demonstrated his great talent with several good
results, including a great win in Spa.
"We are sure we can share more good times
together in the final three races of this season."
Raikkonen added: "I am very sad to be
leaving a team with whom I have spent three fantastic years,
during which time I won plenty of races.
"I have always felt at home with everyone
here and I will have many happy memories of my time with the
team."
F1
