Ferrari to Confirm Raikkonen Deal in the Next Two Weeks

In what seems to be a major development, Ferrari are set to announce a new deal for their world champion Finn, Kimi Raikkonen, at next weekend’s Belgium Grand Prix. That is the claim made by Italian daily, Corriere della Sera.

The report states that the announcement may even be delayed to the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on the weekend after the next but Raikkonen is sure to stay on as the second driver.

Ever since the sudden death of ex-boss, Sergio Marchionne, Ferrari were rumoured to be in favour of keeping Raikkonen put at the team, in a bid to avoid more changes than necessary. The deceased boss was thought to be in favour in of promoting Charles Leclerc.

However, the report by Corriere della Sera has stated that Leclerc will now make the upgrade to Haas, another Ferrari-powered customer, from his current team, Sauber. The Monegasque is expected to replace Romain Grosjean.

Grosjean has had a poor season, with the manner of his embarrassing crashes frustrating his team and fans alike. Ferrari seem to have taken stock of the situation and are eyeing it as an opportunity to allow Leclerc some experience in a solid midfield car.

He has punched above his weight with the Sauber this season, so much so that when a Sauber which does not make it Q3 these days, it comes as a surprise.
His performances have also seemed to rub off on teammate, Marcus Ericsson, as he has managed two points finishes this season, more than the last two seasons combined.

This is the latest news from silly season, with a spate of changes already taking place. In the past month alone, Ricciardo has announced his move to Renault and Alonso has announced his retirement from F1.

In addition to that, Carlos Sainz has been confirmed as a McLaren driver and Pierre Gasly has been promoted to the senior Red Bull team. The next imminent announcement seems to be Lance Stroll to Force India.