F1 Return Still an Option for Raikkonen

Kimi Raikkonen has broken all ties with the world of open-wheel racing, after he and his manager Steve Robertson have sold their share in their British Formula 3 series. If anybody needed an additional reason to think the Finn's future is strictly related to rallying, rather than a potential F1 return, that was it.

However, while admitting that Kimi's plans for 2011 include only a participation in the World Rally Championship, Robertson hinted that F1 is not a closed chapter for his client.

“We have not talked with anyone in F1. Kimi hasn't closed the door on it; you never say never in case the right offer comes along,” said Robertson in a recent interview with Finland's Turun Sanomat newspaper.

Talking to the situation at Ferrari, where his client was supposed to drive in 2010, Robertson insisted that Kimi would have done just as well as Fernando Alonso with the car he had.

“I think he would have done pretty much the same as Fernando did. Fernando drove a great season and I don't want to take anything away from him. I don't want to be misunderstood, but I think Kimi would have done a good job in that car,” he insisted.

For the time being, Raikkonen and personal backer Red Bull energy drink are looking for a new commitment in the WRC. A renewed collaboration with Citroen may happen, but Raikkonen was also offered an opportunity to join the Mini brand starting 2011.

“Of course you always want to decide your next plans sooner rather than later, but sometimes it's just not possible. I hope we will know what direction we are going by the end of November,” added Kimi's manager.