Raikkonen to start F1 testing in January

Kimi Raikkonen has revealed plans to give his formula one testing return an early start.

The former world champion, who is returning to F1 with Lotus in 2012 after two years in world rallying, has not driven a grand prix car since he left Ferrari in late 2009.

F1’s official pre-season programme for 2012 does not begin until early February - just five weeks before the first race in Melbourne.

"We don’t test the new car until February so it’s a long wait," the 32-year-old said this week.

"However, I should be able to jump into a two year old F1 car in January."

The Finn is referring to a testing rules loophole that allows some running in older machines with non-competitive tyres.

"Of course, there will be the usual training, but I will also be working on getting to know the team better and making sure I fully understand all the changes since I have been away," added Raikkonen.