Kimi Raikkonen will wait until the middle of the year before deciding if he wants to commit himself to rallying or push for an F1 return.

The former world champion has signed up for a campaign in the World Rally Championship after failing to land an F1 seat for 2010, and has hinted before that he may never come back to grand prix racing.

However, speaking to Italian magazine Autosprint, Raikkonen says nothing is settled about his future - and that F1 remains close to his heart.

"I have always been interested in competing in the WRC and, at one point in my career, I've been offered this great opportunity by Red Bull," he said. "So, why not take it?"

When asked about his plans for beyond 2010, Raikkonen said: "The doors to F1 are still open.

"I've dedicated nine years of my life to this series, and I have some truly excellent memories. I will take a decision midway through the year. Then I'll decide whether to stay in rallying, or to come back to the grands prix."


http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81005