The German, who had also been linked with moves to Jordan and Toyota, announced the switch in a statement issued on Sunday.

It will mean Frenzten's F1 career has come full circle - he made his debut with Sauber in 1994 and drove for them for three seasons before leaving to join Williams in 1997.

"I am pleased to announce that I will drive the 2003 season for Team Sauber Petronas," said the 35-year-old.

"My relationship with Peter Sauber has always been something special. He gave me the chance in Formula One and, with that, the basis for my career.

"When I left Team Sauber in 1996, I always clearly said that at some time or other I would like to come back to this team.

"The performance of Sauber Petronas in the last years has really impressed me and I am convinced that together we can be successful."

Frentzen asked for a released from Arrows, who he joined at the beginning of the season, after expressing concerns about the financial uncertainty of the team.

Arrows are fighting an injunction, from shareholders Morgan Grenfell, against the introduction of new investors.

The team, who pulled out of last weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, are in negotiations over a potential buy-out.

Frentzen will partner fellow countryman Nick Heidfeld in 2003, with Brazilian Felipe Massa losing his seat.

Heidfeld and Frentzen hail from the same western German town of Moenchengladbach.

"I've known Nick for a long time," said Frentzen.

"He's super fast and is among the top drivers in F!. I never would have thought we'd be driving for the same team.

"It will be exciting and the team can only profit from that if we both push each other faster."