Former Renault F1 driver Heikki Kovalainen has been confirmed as a McLaren driver for 2008, ending Pedro de la Rosa’s hopes of a return to a race drive.

McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh said: “We had a number of options open to us and as always we want to make sure that we have the most competitive driver line-up and I think that Lewis and Heikki will be a formidable combination.

“Both enjoyed great rookie seasons in 2007 and share a genuine passion for winning and being the best. Heikki made a strong impression and Lewis’ performance so far has been outstanding and speaks for itself.

“I am confident that they will push each other on track and work well together off track. In addition with Pedro remaining our primary test driver alongside Gary, we really have a strong package and look forward to 2008.”

De la Rosa remains as third driver, with Gary Paffett confirmed as test driver.

McLaren have no plans to hold an official launch for their 2008 car, and will instead have a low-key roll-out at Jerez in January.

“The team will provide the media with photographs and further details about the car when it runs,” the team said on Friday.

This comes in the week McLaren issued a public apology over the ‘Spygate’ row and the FIA called off any further action against the team.

Team Switzerland’s Neel Jani took pole position for tomorrow’s A1GP feature race in Zhuhai, with Michael Ammermüller on pole for the sprint race for a resurgent Team Germany.