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Mika Hakkinen returns to McLaren as partner ambassador

Double world champion Mika Hakkinen has rejoined former team McLaren as a partner ambassador on a "multi-year deal".

Hakkinen drove for McLaren between 1993 and 2001, winning the title in 1998 and 1999. The Finn is moving into a newly-established role which will see him work alongside executive director Zak Brown and the team's marketing staff to deal with partners.

"I've always considered McLaren to be my home in Formula One, and I still have an enormous place in my heart for everyone in the team," Hakkinen said. "Of course, the past few years for McLaren haven't been easy, but I've always believed that it's only a matter of 'when' rather than 'if' McLaren will come good again - and I want to play my part in helping that happen.