Sauber’s Raikkonen dreams of red rocket
Kimi Raikkonen, the number two driver of the Swiss Sauber Formula One team, says he wants to drive for Ferrari in the future. But the Finn claims he will honour his three-year contract with his Hinwil-based outfit.
The 21-year-old, who made his grand prix debut this year, is convinced his career will lead him to Ferrari.
Raikkonen told British weekly “Motorsport News”: “A bit more experience, and I’ll get there. Everyone in Formula One wants to drive for them, but for me it’s an ambition, like winning the world championship.”
The Finn had just 23 single seat car races under his belt before joining Sauber. His lack of experience has not been a hindrance though; he scored a point in his first race in Australia.
So far, Raikkonen’s regular finishes have earned him a provisional ninth place in the world championship rankings, making him level with Canada’s favourite driver and former champion, Jacques Villeneuve. Observers have also taken note of his calm nature and the performance he extracts from his car on the circuit.
Even if Raikkonen intends fulfilling his obligations to Sauber, he has already been linked to Ferrari. The famous Italian team also supplies Sauber’s engines.
Ferrari’s current drivers are triple world champion Michael Schumacher, under contract until 2004, and Brazilian Rubens Barrichello, who has signed until the end of next season.
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