Initial reports had suggested that Raikkonen would make his debut in NASCAR this year with his own entry, ICE1 Racing, the same that he competes with in the World Rally Championship. That won’t happen apparently, as the Flying Finn will join Kyle Busch as teammate in his own squad for a few races in 2011.
As expected, the Finn will not retire from the WRC just yet, as he’s scheduled to alternate his two programmes for the entire duration of this season. His first test prior to the May 20 outing will happen from as early as next week, at the half-mile oval track Gresham Motorsports Park.
“I am really excited to have the opportunity to start my venture into NASCAR with Kyle Busch Motorsports,” said Raikkonen in a statement.
“Kyle is one of the best in NASCAR, and being able to draw on his knowledge will be a valuable asset as I make my transition to a new form of racing. He has put together an experienced team that builds fast race trucks. I look forward to being a part of a team that has proven to be a winner on and off the race track.”
Busch was himself enthused with the move, especially since Raikkonen will become the second Formula 1 champion in history, after Jacques Villeneuve, to make a transition to NASCAR racing.
“We are honoured that Kimi Raikkonen, a former Formula 1 world drivers' champion and proven winner, has chosen to start his career in NASCAR with Kyle Busch Motorsports. Adding one of the most talented drivers in the world is a continuation of building a team of proven winners and champions at KBM. I look forward to assisting in Kimi's transition to NASCAR as both an owner and team-mate,” said Busch.
Up until now, no information has surfaced on the sponsorship behind Raikkonen’s 2011 scheduled in the Truck Series, or the exact number of races he’ll do this year.
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