Kimi Raikkonen back to F1 in 2012

Kimi left F1 in 2009 to pursue a career in World Rally but his passion for F1 never went away. Commenting on his decision to return, Kimi said he is as excited to return to F1 with Lotus Renault GP as he is impressed by the scope and ambition of the team.

He admits it will be difficult to jump back in but is not daunted by the challenge as not a lot has changed since he left, with the tyres and DRS being the obvious differences.

“Comparing 2009 to next year the biggest difference will probably be the tyres. I don’t think there is a lot of difference with the cars. DRS is a new thing but this is basically similar to before. The button that used to be for the front wing has disappeared, so now it’s for the rear wing. I would guess the main difference is really the tyres”, remarked Kimi.

In terms of his physical readiness, Kimi reckons the hardest thing will be to strengthen his neck muscles to handle the G-forces again after two years out of an F1 car - preparation best achieved by getting behind the wheel.

Here’s hoping his return is successful and we see him at the front of the grid in 2012.