'Raikkonen closes in on Citroen rally deal'
Saturday 28th November 2009
Kimi Raikkonen is set to walk away from F1 and a possible drive with Mercedes GP as reports claim he's on the verge of closing a deal to compete in next year's World Rally Championship with Citroen. 2007 F1 World Champion Raikkonen is without a drive for next season after reaching a mutual agreement with Ferrari to end his contract a year early. And although the Finn wanted to remain in Formula One, he stated rather specifically that he would only race for McLaren as he wouldn't join a team that could not guarantee him race wins and a shot at the World title. Talks with McLaren broken down, resulting in the Woking outfit opting instead to sign Jenson Button, leaving Raikkonen without a F1 drive. However, the Finn is reportedly on the verge of joining Citroen in the World Rally Championship, where he would compete in a C4 World Rally Car on all 13 rounds of the Championship. According to the official WRC website, 'nothing is signed yet, but a source close to the 2007 F1 World Champion told wrc.com that only small details needed to be tied-up before an official announcement is made in the coming days. 'The Finn's 2010 WRC programme is understood to have been funded by Red Bull, one of Raikkonen's personal sponsors, and a major backer of Citroen's World Rally campaign.' Should Raikkonen sign for Citroen, it would put an end to the slim chance that he could race for Mercedes GP next season. Related Links
Hirvonen: Kimi will struggle at first in rallying
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