Barrichello for Maranello

In a brief statement, the italian team said Barrichello has agreed a two-year contract, while at the same time thanked Eddie Irvine for his 'constructive and loyal collaboration with the team over the past four season.'

The Stewart driver will replace Eddie Irvine, the man who until last weekend was leading this season's drivers' championship.

It's thought that Irvine will take Barrichello's place at the Stewart team, which next year is expected to be rebranded as Jaguar.

Barrichello has signed a two-year contract to become the new partner to Michael Schumacher.

This week Barrichello was making it clear that he would not sign if he was to undertake the same role as Irvine, that of understudy to Schumacher, and it's thought the two will race as equals.

What the move does as far as this year's championship is concerned is unclear. Irvine is still in a great position to win the drivers' title, leaving Ferrari with the prospect of winning the championship for the first time in years, and immediately losing that champion.