Ferrari confirm Kimi Raikkonen for 2016

After much speculation about the 2007 World Champion's future, Ferrari has put fans' minds at rest that one of the most popular drivers in the paddock will remain in Formula One for next year.

It was rumoured that Kimi Raikkonen would be leaving Formula One altogether at the end of this season, with either Valtteri Bottas or Nico Hulkenberg taking the Finn's place. This, of course, has now slammed the brakes on drastic changes in the driver market for this year.

Raikkonen rejoined Ferrari in 2014 alongside Fernando Alonso, but struggled to match the Spaniard's pace. This year has seen an increase in his performance, but he is still being outshined by his team mate, Sebastian Vettel, who will continue to partner Raikkonen for next year.

“For me, to be able to stay another year at Ferrari means that the dream goes on. The Scuderia is my family, as I always said, it’s here I want to end my career,” said Raikkonen.

“I am more committed than ever and I want to say thank you to the people who gave me this chance.”

Ferrari team principal Maurizio Arrivabene said: “We believe that extending Kimi’s contract into next season will provide further stability to the team. This has been our guideline, also considering the very good relationship between Kimi and Seb.”

Raikkonen’s resigning with Ferrari has sparked theories about next year’s car. Their 2016 car will be a development of this year’s SF15T, which is proving to be a firm foundation having already hit the team’s target of two victories this season.

It is a strong sign that Ferrari strongly believe they can win the championship in 2016, and want Raikkonen as a number 2 driver. Had they signed one of the younger drivers lined up to replace the Finn, I’m sure they would not have been happy to accept a number 2 status within the team.

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