• Driver market

Raikkonen eyes lucrative sabbatical

Kimi Raikkonen could stand to make more money enjoying a year off, than if he were to sign for McLaren next season. According to German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, if Raikkonen accepts McLaren's current offer he will earn US$22 million, compared with US$25 million should he take a year out.

His termination deal with Ferrari means that he stands to receive US$22 million if he finds a drive in F1, but $US25 million should he take a year off.

McLaren have offered the 2007 world champion a contract worth US$7.5 million, which would take his earnings for the year up to US$22 million, but it seems Raikkonen's agents are unwilling to budge on his demands.

Following the season finale in Abu Dhabi, Raikkonen said he would only remain in F1 if he could drive with a team who could give him a car to challenge for the title. Should McLaren fail to tempt Raikkonen, Sauber's Nick Heidfeld could be their second choice.

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