Kimi Raikkonen © Lotus F1 Team
Speaking to Finnish media in Zurich today, Lotus F1 driver Kimi Raikkonen revealed that he is still motivated to win another world championship. "Of course the championship is always the goal. It is fine to try for another championship, but I am not obsessed with it. But I do not drive just for fun. It is not normal if you are not reaching for victory," said Raikkonen to Finnish television broadcaster MTV3.
"You can't be terribly happy with second or third place. But winning is not always possible, and you have to know how to deal with it."
Raikkonen also revealed that he was pleased about the team atmosphere within the Lotus team. The 2007 Formula 1 world champion has driven for three teams in the past - Sauber, McLaren and Ferrari.
"There is a distinctly different atmosphere here [in Lotus] compared to previous teams. Here there are no uptight people, here the atmosphere is cozy," said Raikkonen.
After Robert Kubica's tragic rallying accident before the start of the 2011 season, Lotus are not taking any chances with respect to their new driver Kimi Raikkonen, despite the Finn's fondness for rallying as well. Raikkonen is prevented from taking part in any rallying activities while driving for the team.
Regarding his rallying activities, Raikkonen said: "The team is quite cautious after what happened to them [with Kubica]. I should not have any major hobbies any more. But that has actually been the case in every team. It is quite understandable that they are trying to protect me. Perhaps we can agree at some point, what I can do and what I can't."
"On the other hand, you can hurt yourself in everyday life, all of a sudden. Let's see now. I hope I get to drive [in rally]. I probably need to wait for a while before I can get to drive [in rally]."
