Räikkönen explains the reasons for his departure from Lotus

Money. This is the reason given by the 2007 world champion to justify his departure from Team Lotus, to join Scuderia Ferrari starting next season.

« The reason I am leaving the team (Editor’s note: Lotus) is purely financial. It’s unfortunate, but I haven’t been paid. They knew what needed to be done to keep me, but the matter is closed and I am happy. »

Several media outlets report figures around 17 million euros, the arrears owed to Räikkönen by Lotus. The future ex-Gold and Black driver also reiterated his love for racing, which is his only motivation in this world of F1: “I love racing. It’s the only reason I’m here. It doesn’t matter which team.”

We knew about the delicate financial situation of the team led by Eric Boullier since the beginning of the season. Genji Capital, owner of the Lotus F1 Team, had even sold 35% of the team’s shares this summer to an investment fund named Infinity Racing Partners. We thought the team’s future was secured for a while, but it seems that this lifeline and the discussions between Kimi and Lotus were not enough. This is despite the fact that the English team had discussed with Ice Man the possibilities for 2014 of an even closer collaboration with Renault, and not just a motorist-team relationship, in case of a contract with the Diamond.

Furthermore, Räikkönen discussed his future relationship with Fernando Alonso for next year. According to the Finn, both are experienced enough to know what we are doing, and the team is working to ensure everything goes well. If there is a problem, then we can talk about it. I might be wrong, but I’m sure things will go well. Räikkönen thus wants to put to rest all those who have already imagined the simmering war between the two headliners of Scuderia Ferrari in 2014.