Raikkonen should stay at McLaren, says Hakkinen

By Phil Huff
June 9 2006

Mika Hakkinen has waded into the debate about Kimi Raikkonen's future, advising the fellow Finn that his future should be at Woking.

Speaking to reporters at Silverstone today, the double world champion acknowledge Kimi's ability, saying that "he is fantastic, very talented, he has really established himself."

With Fernando Alonso confirmed at McLaren Mercedes for 2007, paddock speculators are suggesting that Raikkonen will vacate the team for Ferrari, although no party has confirmed anything at this stage.

However, Mika got the paddock interested by commenting "I know everything."

After chuckling for a moment or two, he came clean and said he's as in the dark as anybody else, but feels Kimi should try to emulate Hakkinen himself.

"Personally, having talked to Kimi, I feel he should do what I did," commented Mika. "I feel he should stay with McLaren."