Zoom Raikkonen interested in a new challenge

World Rally team boss Malcolm Wilson has offered reigning Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen a test in one of the squad's Ford Focus WRC cars.

Raikkonen, the Ferrari driver whose contract expires at the end of next year, said recently he would be interested in trying rallying once his F1 career is over.

"I'd offer him a test," Wilson is quoted as saying by Eurosport. "It'd be a great opportunity for us."

Reigning World Rally champion Sebastien Loeb is also open to the idea of Raikkonen, embroiled in speculation about his future beyond 2009, switching codes.

"I would welcome (him) because it's good to have big names coming into rallying," he said.

Frenchman Loeb predicts it would be difficult for the Finn to turn his hand to rallying, given its fundamental differences to circuit racing.

"But with the talent he has and with some practice he will adapt and find the feeling," the 34-year-old explained.

Reports indicate that Ferrari parent company Fiat's rallying effort, the Abarth team, intends to move from the Intercontinental Rally Challenge to World Rally in 2010.

They would reportedly be thrilled at the prospect of having Raikkonen on board.

Source: GMM
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