Lotus have confirmed that Pastor Maldonado will drive for the team in the Formula 1 season next year.

The former Williams driver had been expected to join the outfit after admitting that he had been in talks with the team following the departure of Kimi Raikkonen, who will join Ferrari next season.

Maldonado told the club's official website: "It is a fantastic opportunity for me to join Lotus F1 Team for 2014. It's no secret that I have wanted a change of scene to help push on with my Formula 1 career and Lotus F1 Team offered the very best opportunity for me to be competitive next season.

"The regulations and cars will change significantly so it is a very good time for a fresh start. I can't wait to be racing in black and gold."

Team principal Eric Boullier added: "It is clear that Pastor has pace and potential – demonstrated by his 2010 GP2 Series title success and then through strong races throughout his career at Williams F1 Team – and we are convinced that we will be able to provide the correct environment to enable him to flourish regularly on track."

Maldonado will team up with Romain Grosjean for the new campaign.