Kovalainen to drive for McLaren in 2009

BUDAPEST, Hungary -- Heikki Kovalainen will remain a McLaren driver for the 2009 Formula One season.

The 26-year-old Finn, who is sixth in the standings in his first season with the British team, was confirmed as a driver for next year by McLaren on Thursday.

"I'm very, very happy with this team. I have had no second thoughts since I joined," Kovalainen said. "I think there is great potential in this team and I want to be part of it. I want to become a successful driver in this team.

"I'd be happy to finish my career in this team, to be honest."

Kovalainen has had a disjointed debut season at McLaren since joining from Renault, with Fernando Alonso going the other way. There had been reports that McLaren was interested in signing Williams driver Nico Rosberg for 2009.

"As far as I'm concerned, I've never been worried about my contractual situation," Kovalainen said. "Since the beginning of my McLaren career, it's been my target to extend this relationship for many, many years."

McLaren had a turbulent season in 2007, receiving a record fine from the "spygate" scandal with Ferrari and finishing second in the drivers' standings after Alonso, a two-time world champion at Renault, fell out with Lewis Hamilton.

"The atmosphere in the team is fantastic and that's also due to Heikki. We love to work together," Hamilton said. "We're having a much smoother year, it's much more relaxed as it should be. We don't have any excess baggage on our shoulders."

Kovalainen said he wouldn't just act as support for Hamilton as he chases the championship.

"I don't see it like that," Kovalainen said. "I don't think Lewis needs any help."

McLaren trails Ferrari by 19 points in the constructors' standings.