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Mika Hakkinen has announced he is "taking a break" from Formula One.

The Finnish driver said that he wants to concentrate on family life after 11 years in the sport.

He will be replaced at McLaren by his countryman Kimi Raikkonen.

Raikkonen, 21, is currently in his first season in F1 with Swiss-based team Sauber.

Hakkinen won back-to-back world championships in 1998 and 99, but believes the time has now come for him to take a step back from motor racing.

His "break" seems certain to indicate the 32-year-old's retirement from the sport.

Hakkinen said in a statement: "Formula One has been virtually my whole life since I started karting in 1974. The intensity of my career has become increasingly difficult for those around me.

"While this year has been difficult for me and the team, these experiences have not guided the decision to take this break. I asked the team for a break which would be a good way to recharge my batteries and enjoy more time with my wife Erja and my son Hugo."

He added: "Of course it might have been easier to retire, but that just isn't a decision I feel ready to take."

McLaren confirmed their driver line-up for 2002 will be David Coulthard and Raikkonen, with Alexander Wurz as official test driver.

"I am pleased to welcome a fellow Finn to the team and I wish Kimi all the best," continued Hakkinen, who has only won one race - the British GP - this season.

"However, let's not forget that there are three races left for me this year and I have every intention of going flat out."

McLaren boss Ron Dennis - who forged a close bond with Hakkinen after seeing him almost killed at the 1995 Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide - paid tribute to his driver.

"Mika has always done an incredible job for us, and now is not the time to be bidding him farewell," said Dennis.

"Kimi's outstanding performances in what is only his first year in Formula One have obviously resulted in a lot of attention.

"We are also pleased to continue our relationship with David who has shown that he can win races and is obviously a strong championship contender."

Story filed: 09:07 Friday 14th September 2001

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