F1: Raikkonen Would Consider Mercedes Move

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION Kimi Raikkonen may reconsider his decision to take a sabbatical if Mercedes Grand Prix can convince the Finn it can compete for the World Championship.

Raikkonen had originally decided to forgo the 2010 season after missing out on the second seat alongside Lewis Hamilton at McLaren.

But following Mercedes’ purchase of Brawn GP and Jenson Button’s departure, the team has emerged as potential contender to lure the 30-year-old back into the Formula 1 fold.

Speaking to Autosport, Raikkonen’s manager Steve Robertson said the 18-time Grand Prix would take a look at Mercedes’ offer should they decide to make an approach concerning the 2010 season.

“This is Formula 1. If they can offer, or convince us, that they can provide Kimi an opportunity that Kimi is happy with, and that we are happy with, and he feels he can win races and the championship then never say never. There is always a possibility,” he said.

Raikkonen came under strong criticism for a perceived lack of motivation, with Ferrari reportedly concerned at his ‘hit or miss’ reputation on race day, particularly in the aftermath of his 2007 championship triumph.

But Robertson said a lack of motivation is not an issue as Raikkonen remains keen to claim another title.

“As far as Kimi is concerned he has unfinished business - if the opportunity is there to win races and another championship. That is his main goal,” he said.

However, Robertson said the prospect of rallying in 2010 remained a very real option.

“In all honesty, he wanted to do a couple of rallies with F1,” he said. “Since F1 has no testing, Kimi gets a little bit bored during the week because he cannot do anything. He feels it does not do him any harm.

“If you look at what happened this year, when he rallied and then came back to F1, his results were always strong.

“For him, it keeps him sharp. So if he does not do F1, then I am sure he will do something in the World Rally Championship.”