Ferrari has confirmed that Kimi Raikkonen will rejoin the outfit to partner Fernando Alonso in 2014 and 2015 – replacing Felipe Massa who on Tuesday confirmed his exit.
It had been rumoured that the Finn would join Red Bull to partner Sebastian Vettel, but the deal never came off and Daniel Ricciardo was awarded the seat instead.
Then speculation about Raikkonen’s future turned red and a link to the team he won the 2007 title with surfaced. We then reported a deal had been done and it would be announced on Wednesday.
In a short statement, the Italian squad confirmed his appointment.
“Scuderia Ferrari announces that it has reached an agreement with Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn will join Fernando Alonso in the driver line-up for the next two racing seasons.”
Team principal Stefano Domenicali added: “I am delighted to welcome back Kimi to the Scuderia with which he was crowned World Champion,” Domenicali said. “I feel extremely happy to have him return to Maranello and very determined to face the work that awaits him in the best way.”
The move leaves Lotus with an opening alongside Romain Grosjean. Among those linked to the seat are Nico Hulkenberg, Paul di Resta and Massa.
