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Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel has signed a three-year deal with Ferrari following Fernando Alonso’s exit from the Italian team. The German’s switch from Red Bull for next season was announced minutes after Alonso’s departure was confirmed.

“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,” said Vettel, 27.

Two-time world champion Alonso, 33, is expected to join McLaren.

The Spaniard still had two more years to run on his contract with Ferrari but he and the Italian team have agreed to part company.

“It was a difficult decision to take, but a carefully considered one from start to finish,” said Alonso.

“My love for Ferrari was a prime consideration.”

McLaren will not announce their two drivers until at least 1 December as they decide whether to retain Jenson Button or Kevin Magnussen alongside Alonso.

The current season has one more race to run, with Britain’s Lewis Hamilton battling Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg of Germany for the title at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Vettel will partner former world champion Kimi Raikkonen at Ferrari.

“Scuderia Ferrari has decided to put its faith in the youngest multiple champion in the history of Formula 1,” said team boss Marco Mattiacci.

Ferrari last won the world drivers’ title in 2007, when Raikkonen finished top in his first stint with the Italian team.

“Sebastian Vettel is a unique combination of youthfulness and experience,” added Mattiaci.

“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, world champion with Renault in 2005 and 2006, joined Ferrari in 2010 and went on to win 11 times for the Scuderia. — BBC Sport