The former F1-driver Mika Salo doesn't have to think for long when he was asked about the biggest WDC-favourite when looking at the beginning formula season.

- I predict Kimi to be number 1. The fight will be between Kimi and Hamilton next year too, Salo predicts.

Salo doesn't believe that Felipe Massa could stand up to Räikkönen in the Ferrari-team.

- Kimi is motivated and the last season must have annoyed him. I'm surprised that Massa could drive for even one season as good as he drove last year. When it comes to speed Kimi is clearly ahead of Massa if everything is in order, Salo knows.

Heikki Kovalainen's situation in the McLaren-team makes Salo wonder.

- Heikki has a good team behind him but unfortunately there is also a WDC in the team who has a huge self-confidence. Heikki has to beat Hamilton before he can even dream about winning, Salo reminded.

Salo hopes that Kovalainen wouldn't be put in the 2nd driver's position in McLaren.

- Although it's not a bad position in McLaren to be the 2nd driver. Heikki has to be ready to win if Hamilton has a DNF. Last year it only happened once even though there would have been many other opportunities to win races, Salo said.

[via MTV3]