Raikkonen Plays Down Threat to Miss Races Amid Lotus Pay Dispute
Despite unpaid salary at Lotus, Kimi Raikkonen has indicated he intends to complete the 2013 Formula One season before his move to Ferrari.
Kimi Raikkonen has said he expects to see out the 2013 Formula One season with Lotus, despite an ongoing salary dispute that has left him unpaid for much of the year. The Finn, who will rejoin Ferrari for 2014, acknowledged the contract breach but suggested he would rather race than sit out the remaining grands prix.
Lotus’s financial problems became public as Raikkonen confirmed his decision to leave the Enstone-based team was motivated by the lack of payment, rather than performance or team atmosphere. Speaking to Finnish broadcaster MTV3, Raikkonen said he still planned to attend all remaining races, stating, “I do not have any interest in not driving, that’s why I race, because I like it.”
Why Raikkonen is staying on track
Raikkonen’s stance reflects both his personal approach to racing and the practical realities of Formula One contracts. While unpaid salary is a clear breach, sitting out races would not guarantee a resolution and could damage both his and the team’s standing. Raikkonen indicated he does not want to worsen Lotus’s situation or harm the team’s results, even as he prepares to depart for Ferrari.
Speculation had mounted that Raikkonen might withdraw from some races in protest or to pressure Lotus into settling his pay. He dismissed this as unlikely, though he conceded that “anything is possible” if the situation were to deteriorate further. For now, he remains committed to racing, hoping the outstanding salary will eventually be paid.
Hulkenberg linked to Lotus seat for 2014
With Raikkonen heading to Ferrari, Nico Hulkenberg has emerged as a leading candidate to join Lotus. Hulkenberg, who has also faced payment delays at Sauber, said he is not put off by the prospect of joining another team with financial instability. He noted that Raikkonen’s salary is likely much higher, and that his own contract terms would be different.
- Raikkonen confirmed his Lotus exit was due to unpaid salary, not team performance.
- He has stated a preference to keep racing rather than protest by sitting out.
- Nico Hulkenberg remains interested in a Lotus drive despite Sauber pay issues.
What the dispute means for Lotus and F1
The pay dispute has drawn attention to the financial pressures facing several Formula One teams. While top drivers like Raikkonen have some leverage, the situation highlights the risks for both drivers and teams when sponsorship or prize money falls short. For Lotus, retaining Raikkonen for the rest of 2013 ensures continuity and competitiveness, but the unresolved salary issue may affect its reputation in attracting future talent.
Raikkonen’s commitment to see out the season suggests he is prioritising his racing over the contractual dispute for now. The focus now shifts to how Lotus will handle its finances and driver line-up as the 2014 season approaches.
