Raikkonen learning all the time

Kimi Raikkonen kept himself in the title fight until the final race of the 2003 season and the McLaren driver believes he is learning all the time and is more mature. Raikkonen finished last season just two points shy of champion Michael Schumacher ...

Kimi Raikkonen kept himself in the title fight until the final race of the 2003 season and the McLaren driver believes he is learning all the time and is more mature. Raikkonen finished last season just two points shy of champion Michael Schumacher and many think he is one of the few who could topple the German from his throne in 2004.

Kimi Raikkonen.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"I am learning in every test and every race. Last season's experience has brought more speed, more self-confidence and a more mature attitude," said Raikkonen, although he knows a certain amount of luck, as well as a good car, will be needed to clinch the title.

"To win the championship I need a very competitive car and also a bit of luck from time to time. Our results depend on how well we work as a team and how good a car we are able to develop for the season."

McLaren has broken lap records with the new MP4-19 in testing, most recently at Valencia this week with David Coulthard behind the wheel. Raikkonen's winter work was delayed due to minor surgery on his wrist but he's satisfied so far with the results.

"Like every other team, we still have a lot of work to do, but when we really went for it to get a quick lap time, it was there," he said of the 19. But Raikkonen is not about to predict immediate success once the season begins.

"Right now I do not want to speculate how good a chance we have to win enough races and clinch the title. So much depends on this new car. How good it is, we do not know before Melbourne," he commented.