The 2009 driver market

The end of July - a classic option date - came and went with little action in F1 this year. McLaren confirmed Heikki Kovalainen for 2009 and Nico Rosberg let it be known that he will be staying with Williams. This was no surprise because at the moment Rosberg's poor results and many mistakes for Williams have meant that his value has been slipping. The big question that is holding up the market at the moment is what happens with Kimi Raikkonen. There is much speculation in F1 circles that the Finn will retire at the end of the year, despite being only 28. Raikkonen has made no secret of his dislike of the F1 lifestyle, has made all the money he needs in his life, and does not seem to be hugely motivated, despite still being in the running for the World Championship. He has a contract to stay at Ferrari next year, but in a... [read full story]