(This article was originally published on sportskeeda.com on November 6, 2011)
Kimi Raikkonen : F1 Beckons?
It was brushed off as rumors by many, but recent reports are hinting that 2007 F1 world champion, Kimi Raikkonen, is indeed mulling over his return to Formula One, next year. Williams F1 team – One of the most prestigious teams in Formula One, have confirmed that they are indeed negotiating with Kimi Raikkonen to drive for them in the near future. If all goes well, we could certainly have 6 former Formula 1 world champions on the grid in the 2012 season ( Vettel, Button, Alonso, Hamilton, Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen).
Kimi Raikkonen, fondly known as ‘The Iceman’ for his cool and composed nature during tough situations, was hailed as the best by many owing to his successful stints in McLaren in 2003 and 2005, in a car without much fizz. F1 pundits predicted that Raikkonen deserved a much faster car and would be unbeatable if given one. Raikkonen finally got what he deserved as he joined Ferrari in 2007 after signing a contract which made him the highest paid driver in F1 history. His exceptional driving skills were brought to the fore that year as he dethroned double world champion Fernando Alonso (McLaren) to win the driver’s championship title. It all happened in the final race of the season at Interlagos, Brazil, where he withstood a stiff challenge from then rookie Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso to end up being just one point ahead of them in the final standings. Though his victory was controversial, it was a well deserved one as suggested by many. The following season’s weren’t fruitful for him as much as he would have hoped for. He ended up being 3rd in 2008 and a disappointing 6th in 2009. Kimi’s F1 sojourn wouldn’t last long as he left Formula One after the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix wherein he finished a disappointing 12th after starting 11th in the Ferrari.
Raikkonen’s departure from Formula One shocked many as he was seen as one of the brightest prospects for the sport. The main reason cited for his departure was that Ferrari were unable to design a faster car for him. Though he tried joining other teams, none of them could afford the high pay that Ferrari were offering him.
Raikkonen tried Rallying and NASCAR during his time away from F1
During his days away from F1, Kimi tried his hands at rallying and NASCAR without much avail. And if reports are to be believed, we might soon see him again in a F1 car. On the other hand, Williams have not been the same force to reckon with in Formula 1, as they were in the past. They are languishing in 9th position in the constructors championship just above minnows like Lotus, Virgin and HRT. Though they have talented drivers like Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonaldo, their car hasn’t been able to challenge the likes of Ferrari and McLaren. Maybe, Kimi Raikkonen’s arrival might change the fortunes for Williams.
“Yes, it’s true. The Kimi Raikkonen file is on the table. The story is not for show, we are negotiating seriously, but it is only one of several options. There will be a strategic decision.” - Williams shareholder Toto Wolff.
If negotiations with Kimi fail, Williams have other options like Adrian Sutil who is rumored to be exiting Force India at the end of this season. Raikkonen is eager to return to Formula One and hence, he could look out for other options like Force India and Renault, in case the Williams deal doesn’t materialize.
Will Raikkonen’s change the fortunes for Williams? Or would Kimi fade into oblivion like Michael Schumacher since his return in 2010? We might have to wait and watch. As a F1 enthusiast, I certainly hope that Kimi Raikkonen’s return would add an extra level of excitement to Formula One.
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