Jyväskylä, 30 July 2009

There is still some way to go for a Formula 1 GP im Fimlamd but Kimi Raikkonen will have his debut today in a world championship home race with a racing car. The Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro will start at the Finland Rally behind the wheel of an Abarth Grande Punto S200. It is the fourth time that Kimi participates in a rally, after two races on ice and snow last wimter, the Artic and Vaakuna, and the Rally della Marca Trevigiana, on tarmac in Italiz. His navigator is Kaj Lindstrom, who was already a partner of world champion Tommy Makinen.




"I have been to rallys before but this is the first time I have seen the roads: they seem really nice. We will see what will happen but it will be a great experiemce for me" Kimi said during a FIA press conference - "It is much easier for me to adapt to ground than to ice and snow. The grip is alright and the roads are a bit wider. The notes are something completelz new to me. I need some time to learn and understand and where to go when we jump. Mz objective is finishing the rally and staying within the times of my group: well I think I that winning is not an option but I will have fun."

Kimi was asked if it is just passion or if there might be something more to come: "Why not? I am in Formula 1 and I have a contract for another year with Ferrari but everything is possible in the future. And then I am still a bit too young to retire: a lot will depend on how the situation in Formula 1 will evolve, but I am in no rush."

There were also questions about the situation in Formula 1, especially the possibility that Michael Schumacher could drive next to Kimi at the upcoming European GP at Valencia. "Stefano Domenicali
informed me about it yesterday" Kimi said - "Honestly I have to say I feel very honoured if Michael will really drive the second car and he would be my teammate. In the end anything can happen.