McLaren confirms Hamilton race seat.

McLaren Mercedes has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will partner Fernando Alonso for the 2007 Formula One season.

The 21-year-old Briton has long been linked to the seat and has been given the nod over Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett, both of whom will continue as test drivers with the team next year.

Hamilton, who dominated the F3 Euroseries in 2005 with 15 wins from 20 races and followed that up with the GP2 title this year, will continue his testing programme with McLaren next week in Barcelona before making his F1 debut in the Australian Grand Prix in March.

"It's a dream come true," he said. "To be racing in Formula One with McLaren has been the ultimate goal for me since I was very young and this opportunity is a fantastic way to end what has been the best year for me.

?I have grown up with McLaren and Mercedes and wouldn't be where I am today without their continued support and guidance. However I'm aware that this will be a challenge and I know that there will be a lot of attention on me. However the team has told me just to relax, do the best I can and enjoy the opportunity. I will work hard to get good results."

Hamilton has been part of the McLaren and Mercedes-Benz Young Driver Support Programme since its inception in 1998, and has moved through the ranks since then to lift himself to the pinnacle of the sport ? enjoying success in karting and Formula Renault before his F3 and GP2 championship titles.

He joins Jenson Button, David Coulthard and Anthony Davidson on the grid for 2007 ? marking the first time four British drivers will have competed in F1 since the 2003 season.