Raikkonen leaves Formula 1

LONDON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Finland's Kimi Raikkonen says he will not compete on the Formula One auto racing circuit next season and will join the World Rally Championship.

The 2001 F1 champion said Friday he would drive in 12-of-13 rounds for Citroen's Red Bull junior team, missing only the event in New Zealand.

He will partner with compatriot Kaj Lindstrom, a previous multiple WRC champion, and young Frenchman Sebastien Ogier.

"I always wanted to compete in rally, especially in the World Rally Championship, at some point in my career," Raikkonen said. "Thanks to Red Bull, I have the opportunity to drive the best car in the series. For the moment, we have a one-year contract, and we will see how it goes for the future."

Citroen will provide the rally car and running expenses with Red Bull paying millions.

Raikkonen drove for Ferrari in F1 the past three seasons, but was replaced by Spain's Fernando Alonso.