Manager denies Raikkonen set to quit racing

Kimi Raikkonen’s management has played down reports the 2007 world champion could be set to hang up his helmet.

It was suggested this week that the world rally driver had ceased all talks about his plans for 2011 following the death of his father two days before Christmas.

"Since the death of Matti Raikkonen, all the plans (of Kimi Raikkonen) are on ice," said his co-driver Kaj Lindstrom.

But the 31-year-old’s manager Steve Robertson told the Finnish broadcaster MTV3 that he would be surprised if the former Ferrari and McLaren driver retires.

"There is a lot of talk and of course he is upset about his father’s death, which is normal," Robertson said, amid rumours a new deal with Citroen is close.

He added: "I’m pretty sure Kimi will still be involved in motor sport."

Robertson did not want to comment on whether Raikkonen sees his future in rallying or whether a return to F1 one day is possible.

"Kimi is a world champion so of course he has many options," said Robertson. "But at the moment, there is nothing to say."

He indicated that the current period of uncertainty will soon be past.

"Well, it’s January, so I don’t think it’s going to be a very long time," said Robertson.