Raikkonen Set for 2014 F1 Drive, Says Manager
Kimi Raikkonen’s manager Steve Robertson says the 2007 world champion is expected to remain in Formula One for 2014, with talks ongoing with multiple teams.
Kimi Raikkonen’s manager, Steve Robertson, has stated that the Finnish driver is expected to remain in Formula One for the 2014 season. Robertson’s comments come as speculation continues about Raikkonen’s next move, with ongoing discussions involving several teams. Speaking to Finland’s Turun Sanomat, Robertson expressed his certainty regarding Raikkonen’s future in the sport, despite the uncertainty surrounding his team for the upcoming season.
Raikkonen’s Manager Confident of 2014 F1 Future
Negotiations with Lotus and Red Bull
Raikkonen, the 2007 world champion, has been at the centre of contract discussions with both his current team, Lotus, and the reigning constructors’ champions, Red Bull Racing. Lotus, who welcomed Raikkonen back to Formula One in 2012 after a two-year absence, have benefited from his consistent performances and are eager to secure his services for another season. Team principal Eric Boullier has confirmed that the team is working to keep Raikkonen, highlighting his importance to the squad.
Red Bull’s interest in Raikkonen has also been widely reported. The team is considering him as a potential replacement for Mark Webber, who has announced his departure from Formula One at the end of the 2013 season. This move would create an opening alongside Sebastian Vettel, making Raikkonen a strong candidate due to his experience and race-winning pedigree.
Raikkonen’s Preferences and Team Dynamics
While Red Bull’s status as world champions might seem attractive, Raikkonen’s decision will not be based solely on a team’s competitive record. The Finn is known for valuing minimal off-track obligations, preferring to focus on racing rather than sponsor and media commitments. Lotus is understood to provide Raikkonen with more freedom in this regard compared to some of its rivals, which has contributed to his satisfaction with the team. This aspect could play a significant role in his decision-making process, as Raikkonen weighs the benefits of a move to Red Bull against the working environment he currently enjoys at Lotus.
Robertson has emphasised that Raikkonen’s enjoyment of racing and the strong demand for his services are key factors in his likely continuation in Formula One. The manager pointed out that when a driver of Raikkonen’s calibre is performing well and still motivated, there is both supply and demand in the market, making a 2014 seat highly probable.
Uncertainty Over Raikkonen’s Final Decision
Despite the confidence expressed by his manager, Raikkonen himself has not completely ruled out the possibility of leaving Formula One at the end of the year. However, the prevailing expectation within the paddock is that he will continue, with both Lotus and Red Bull making their interest clear. Lotus, in particular, is pushing for a swift resolution as they look to finalise their driver line-up amid competition from other teams seeking to secure top talent for 2014.
The ongoing negotiations reflect Raikkonen’s strong position in the driver market. His performances since returning to the sport have reinforced his reputation as one of the most consistent and competitive drivers on the grid. As a result, both Lotus and Red Bull see him as a valuable asset for the coming season.
Implications for the 2014 Driver Market
Raikkonen’s decision is likely to have a significant impact on the wider Formula One driver market. Should he choose to leave Lotus, the team will need to find a suitable replacement, with names such as Nico Hulkenberg reportedly under consideration. Meanwhile, if Raikkonen opts for Red Bull, it would mark his return to a front-running team with a strong record of championship success. This could also influence the strategies of other teams as they finalise their own line-ups for the new season.
The interest from multiple top teams underlines Raikkonen’s enduring appeal and the respect he commands within the sport. As the 2014 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Finn’s next move, as it could shape the competitive landscape for the year ahead.
