No plans yet for F1 return, says Raikkonen

Former F1 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen has no firm plans to return to circuit racing beyond the end of his 2010 contract with the Citroen Junior Team, and has underlined the seriousness of his bid to make it as a top level rally driver.

Talking EXCLUSIVELY to wrc.com about the appeal of the WRC and his hopes for the season ahead, Raikkonen revealed that his progress during the forthcoming 12-round programme with Citroen would determine his plans for 2011 and beyond.

Ahead of his series debut next week in Sweden, the Finn hinted that he could stay in the WRC if things went well this year, but denied he had a firm date by which he had to commit one way or another.

"I have set no deadlines on myself," he said. "Let's see how things are going. I really enjoy it here now, and if it's like this then maybe I stay or maybe I try something else. I have no plans, no deadlines yet. Let's see what happens."

Asked about whether he was serious about rallying Raikkonen said: "Yes. I wouldn't be here if I wasn't serious. Anytime I start something new I want to learn, and try to do the best I can. It’s something that's going to be a big challenge and I'm looking forward to it."

You can read the full interview with Raikkonen in the WRC Extra section now.