One less rumor on the McLaren side for 2009

Heikki Kovalainen will remain alongside Lewis Hamilton at McLaren next year. The source is considered official since it was the team itself that confirmed it in Hungary on Thursday.

The Finn joined McLaren-Mercedes at the beginning of the season, and although he is fast in qualifying, bad luck has deprived him of several successes.

He has just one podium to his name in Malaysia with a third place, but achieved his first career pole position at the British Grand Prix.

Rumors claimed that Kovalainen’s contract with McLaren included an option for his services in 2009. The Woking team ended these speculations by confirming his presence.

The CEO of McLaren F1, Martin Whitmarsh, was the spokesperson for this news: “We have been delighted with Heikki since the beginning of the season,” he stated.

« He is under contract with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and will continue to do so for the 2009 season. »

As for the main person concerned, he would be happy if he had the opportunity to spend his entire career at McLaren, stating in the process that this team was his primary target.

« As far as I’m concerned, I’ve never been worried about my contract situation, » said Kovalainen.

Since the beginning of my career, McLaren was my goal.

« First of all, I state bluntly that I am very, very happy with McLaren. There is great potential in this team and I want to be part of it. To be honest, I would be happy to end my career with this team. »

The teammate of Kovalainen, Lewis Hamilton also admitted that he hoped to keep the same partner for several years.

« I have known him for a little while, and it is not a surprise to find him where he is currently.

« The team is fantastic, largely thanks to Heikki. That’s why I congratulate him. I sincerely hope he will stay with us for a long time. »