Four-time world rally champion Tommi Makinen and co-driver Risto Mannisenmaki have signed a two-year contract with the Subaru World Rally team for the 2002 season.
"I felt it was time for a change, and I'm delighted that Subaru has given me this fantastic opportunity," 37-year-old Makinen said in a release issued Monday.
Team Principal David Lapworth said, "No driver ever comes close to matching Tommi's record of achievements over the last five years. When he joins us next season the sky's the limit on what we can achieve as a team."
Makinen, who currently drives for Mitsubishi, was world champion from 1996-99. He is currently battling Colin McRae of Britain for the lead in the overall standings.