With a lot of speculation as to Heikki Kovalainen’s future, the McLaren Formula One team have now confirmed that the young Finn will be remaining as teammate to Lewis Hamilton for the upcoming 2009 Formula oen season.

Speaking to Autosport, McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh confirmed that they have picked up the option on their driver and there is no doubt about the fact that he will be racing for them next year.

“We welcomed Heikki on board at the start of the year. He is under contract to Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, and will continue to race for us in the 2009 season," Whitmarsh was quoted as saying.

Heikki is yet to win a race for the Woking based team, however he did secure the first pole position of his F1 career just two races ago at Silverstone.