Mikko Hirvonen to retire from World Rally Championship after 2014

Since his return to M-Sport in 2013 after two seasons with Citroen, Hirvonen has struggled to find the kind of form that carried him to within a point of the 2009 WRC title.

After 13 years in the championship, 34-year-old Hirvonen says he is looking forward to spending more time with his family.

"Throughout the many years of my competitive career, I have focused on myself a lot," he said.

"Rallying has taken up a large part of my life and the pace of the calendar has always been fairly unrelenting.

"I have enjoyed absolutely every minute of it and although I still love driving now, I would also like to concentrate more on other important things which are part of my life, like my children and my family.

"There are many areas that I have not yet explored and I'd like to give myself the chance to try new experiences."

Hirvonen has not ruled out a return to motorsport, but made it clear his professional career is over.

"Like anyone who loves motorsport, I'm not only a fan of rallying," he said.

"I have always liked to keep an eye on other forms of racing.

"But if I get the opportunity to take on a new challenge in the near future, it will above all be for enjoyment.

"For the time being, I just want to slow down a bit and take the time to find out about the possibilities that might be out there for me."

Hirvonen has won 15 of his 162 WRC starts.

He spent the majority of his career with M-Sport, driving for the team in three separate stints in both its factory Ford and independent guises, punctuated by seasons with the works Subaru and Citroen teams.

"I would like to thank all the people without whom the greatest adventure of my life would never have even started," he added.

"My family, my friends, my co-driver Jarmo, my sponsors, the teams with which I have competed over the seasons, thanks to their work and unwavering commitment and passion.

"And of course, my fans, who have been there in the good times and the bad times and who have given us their unconditional support and encouragement.

"A huge thank you to all of you."

Hirvonen is expected to be replaced by Ott Tanak at M-Sport next season.

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