Lots of ink, virtual and not has been spent on Fernando Alonso's contract situation but really, Kimi is in the same boat....It's been eight years since Kimi Raikkonen has landed in Formula 1. To everyone amazement after having done just a tiny number of races in F3000 Formula Renault (thanks Dr.Vee!), Kimi was offered a test with Sauber. That test at the Mugello track impressed everyone including Herr Schumacher and the rest you know. But now many are wondering if Raikkonen's apparent lack of motivation comes from a sense of insecurity about the future.
His contract with Ferrari is up at the end of next year and while Ferrari officially is trying to reach an agreement to extend his contract for at least one additional season, it is obvious that the Finn is not in an especially strong barganing position. He is the most expensive driver in the field (presuming Hamilton is off the market) but at the same time he has no real alternatives in terms competitive rides. And of course there is a two time world champion waiting in the wings ready to not only drive for free but also bring a huge sponsorship package with him.
Perhaps this is the real reason why we have seen cracks in the ice lately.
Expect some news to emerge after Valencia, perhaps after the Monza test at the end of the month.
His contract with Ferrari is up at the end of next year and while Ferrari officially is trying to reach an agreement to extend his contract for at least one additional season, it is obvious that the Finn is not in an especially strong barganing position. He is the most expensive driver in the field (presuming Hamilton is off the market) but at the same time he has no real alternatives in terms competitive rides. And of course there is a two time world champion waiting in the wings ready to not only drive for free but also bring a huge sponsorship package with him.
Perhaps this is the real reason why we have seen cracks in the ice lately.
Expect some news to emerge after Valencia, perhaps after the Monza test at the end of the month.
Interesting points. Just on a pedantic note, Raikkonen never raced in F3000. He didn't even race in F3. He only had a few Formula Renault UK races under his belt.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, I should have looked it up, he only had 23 races in a car prior to landing in F1. That has to be a record!
ReplyDeleteI personally don't think Kimi has any reason to worry.
ReplyDeleteI certainly respect Alonso and do believe that the pair are no doubt the best.
He would've won both Canada and France, and quite dramatically IMHO.
Mid season lull. Let's see how things look after Spa.
My two cents.