Kovalainen to replace Alonso

Heikki Kovalainen will be confirmed as Renault's second race driver for 2007 within the next two weeks, according to sources close to the Finn.

Kovalainen, 24, who is currently Renault's test driver, will be promoted to a race seat to replace McLaren-bound world champion Fernando Alonso in the team next year alongside Italian Giancarlo Fisichella.

Although the French squad would not confirm the deal, Kovalainen is guaranteed a race drive next year under a clause in his management contract with Renault team boss Flavio Briatore.

A source close to Kovalainen said: “It looks very, very good for Heikki. Renault think very highly of him and don't see him as a risk at all." Eurosport