Renault confirm Kovalainen as third driver

The GP2 front-runner will replace Franck Montagny, who will continue to test for the team until the end of the year before moving on.

"I am delighted to have been offered this opportunity by Renault," said Kovalainen. "I have already done some testing for the team, but I still have a lot to learn.

"This role will allow me to understand more about the team and how Formula One works while developing my driving and technical skills at this level. It is a privilege to be invited to join a championship-winning team, and I am determined to help Renault retain its world titles."

Renault boss Flavio Briatore, who told Autosport this week that Kovalainen was '90 percent' certain to race for Renault in 2007, added: " We are delighted to welcome Heikki to the team as our third driver for 2006.

"He has demonstrated that he is a talented, aggressive driver in the GP2 Series, and he has impressed our engineers during his tests with the team.

"The test driver's role will be crucial during 2006 as we develop our V8 engine through the season to defend the world championship. I am confident Heikki will make a valuable contribution to our success.
 
"Franck Montagny will continue testing for us until the end of 2005, and I want to pay tribute to his dedication and contribution during his time as test driver. His work with the test team played an important part in our championship victory, and we wish him well for the future."