Ferrari have announced the signing of German Sebastian Vettel, who will replace Fernando Alonso for next season.

Vettel, 27, who leaves Red Bull, spoke of his admiration of Ferrari from a young age:

"When I was a kid Michael Schumacher in the red car was my greatest idol. It's an incredible honour to get the chance to drive a Ferrari."

Ferrari boss Marco Mattiacci believes that four-time winner Vettel could be the man to turn around the fortunes of the team, who have not won a Constructors' Championship since 2008:

"He brings with him that sense of team spirit which will prove invaluable when, together with Kimi, they tackle the challenges awaiting us, as we aim to be front runners again as soon as possible."

Alonso, 33, is expected to sign a deal with McLaren, who will announce their drivers some time in December. He left with two years remaining on his contract.

"It was a difficult decision to take, but a carefully considered one from start to finish," he said.

The last race of the current season is this weekend's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in which Mercedes team-mates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg will vie for the drivers' title.