By Fatih Erel

ISTANBUL 

Former Formula 1 champion Kimi Raikkonen will leave Ferrari to be replaced by Charles Leclerc at the end of this year, Ferrari announced on Tuesday.

In the next Formula 1 racing season, Charles Leclerc will drive for the Ferrari team alongside Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari said in a statement.

"Dreams do come true. I will be driving for @scuderiaferrari for the 2019 Formula 1 World Championship," Leclerc said in a Tweet.

"During these years, Kimi’s contribution to the Team, both as a driver and on account of his human qualities, has been fundamental. He played a decisive role in the team’s growth and was, at the same time, always a great team player," Ferrari said.

38-year-old Finnish Raikkonen will drive for Sauber in the next Formula 1 racing season.

"Guess who is back?! Next two years with sauberf1team ahead! Feels extremely good to go back where it all began!," Raikkonen said on Instagram.