Turkish GP: Kimmi Raikkonen preview

Raikkonen: "There's still work to do to get back on top"

Maranello, 3rd June 2009 - Ferrari always went very well at the Turkish GP over the last three years, but this time Brawn GP is the great favourite, because they won five out of the six races so far. We're closing the gap, but we've got to give it our all to get back in the lead.

It was great to be back on the podium at Monaco. The Team pushed very hard and it was a very nice reward to have both cars amongst the first four. The Monaco weekend was a step forward as far as the result is concerned, but we have to be patient: I know that our fans want to see us winning immediately, but we have to be realistic. We're closer, that's for sure, and we'll have some updates in Turkey; but we know that the others work hard too. Compared to the Monaco track the Istanbul Park is a more conventional track and we have a more definite idea. I really like this track and it's very demanding. There are all types of corners and blind spots to brake; everything you need for a beautiful race. This year's cars have less downforce, but we're using slicks: corner number 8 will be very exciting under these circumstances. I think that it's the downforce we still have to make up ground compared to Brawn GP and Red Bull, but we're heading in the right direction.

Now, almost half way through the season, I'm much more optimistic than I was at the start, especially with the steps we've taken in the last two races. We know that there are further improvements coming up, which makes me think positive about the future. Who wins five out of four races at the start of the season is in an excellent position to winning the title, but the Championship isn't over yet. Everything can happen, although things have to change very soon.

Last Saturday I made my first experience in a rally on tarmac in Italy. I had lots of fun as far as the competition and the Italian fans' support were concerned. It was a pity that the fun it didn't last long.

-credit: ferrari