McLaren announced that two-time world champion Hakkinen would be taking a break at the end of the current season to allow him to spend more time with his family.

"It is very nice for me and I am very happy to be with McLaren," said the quietly spoken Raikkonen.

"I didn't want to go somewhere as a number two driver and McLaren has always had two drivers."

Sauber driver Raikkonen drove a Formula One car for the first time last September at Mugello in testing and picked up his first point in the world championship at Melbourne where he finished sixth.

Asked whether he had been expecting to move to a top squad after just a year in the sport, Raikkonen said: "No. I wasn't even expecting this time last year to be in Formula One. Everything has happened in a very small time."

The Finn revealed he had yet to visit McLaren headquarters and declined to give details of how long a contract he had signed with the team.

He said he would leave Sauber on good terms with owner Peter Sauber.

"There are still good relations and I give big thanks to him for giving me the chance to come into Formula One," Raikkonen said.

Raikkonen dismissed suggestions that it would be easier for him next season with the resources and expertise of a big team behind him.