Mika Hakkinen will take a break from Formula One next season and be replaced by fellow Finn Kimi Raikkonen at McLaren, the team said today.
"After 11 years in Formula One and two Formula One world championships Mika Hakkinen will take a break following the end of the current season to allow him to dedicate more time to family life," the team said in a statement.
Raikkonen, 21, has had a highly impressive debut season with Sauber and will partner Britain's David Coulthard at McLaren.
Austrian Alexander Wurz will remain as the team's test driver.
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"I asked the team for a break which would be a good way to recharge my batteries and enjoy more time with my wife Erja and my son Hugo," said Hakkinen.