Kimi Raikkonen to sit out the 2010 Formula One season

Raikkonen, who won the Drivers’ Championship in 2007, had been out of a drive after Ferrari opted to replace him with Fernando Alonso as Felipe Massa’s partner for next season. The Finn had been in talks with the McLaren team, but failed to reach an agreement.

Raikkonen’s manager Steve Robertson said, "The only option for F1 next season was McLaren or nothing. Kimi and McLaren were unable to reach an agreement, so he will not drive at F1 level, at least not next year."

Raikkonen is expected to turn his focus on other forms of motorsport in 2010, with a possible entry in the World Rally Championship next season. The Finn could return to F1 in 2011, with Red Bull Racing said to be interested in taking on his services.