Kovalainen is still uncertain about his future

Heikki Kovalainen admitted that his future was still uncertain mainly regarding his plans for the next season, but the Finn acknowledged that he just wanted to be in a competitive car in 2008.

Kovalainen, who made his F1 debut this season with Renault, still has to wait some time for a possible confirmation from the French team. Especially since he has been rumored to be linked to the McLaren team to take control of the second car after Fernando Alonso’s departure.

« I am not confirmed (at Renault). I don’t have a contract with anyone, and I have various options available to me. I think Renault will be a competitive team in 2008, » Kovalainen told reporters after his third day of testing in Barcelona.

I hope I can stay, but we’ll see, as there are other options that are interesting. We don’t know who will perform well next year. It could be anyone, which is why I need a bit of time for my decision.

He added: « I think I am in a very good position within the team. They know me well and they know my potential, which I have been able to express this season. I can do good work for the team, but obviously Fernando is still free, I believe… »

« I think any team would like to have Fernando. I believe Renault is trying to bring him back to the team, and we need time to determine if it’s me who will drive the other car or if it’s someone else. You know, we haven’t decided yet, we really don’t know, » continued the Finn.

The boss of the Renault team, Flavio Briatore, revealed that he has already made an offer to Alonso to return to the team next season, and the Spaniard is widely expected to join the French team.

Kovalainen, however, has made it clear that if he stays with Renault, he would want equal status with his teammate from the start of the season.

« I want to be in a competitive car to be able to fight for victories and the championship, » he said.

« It doesn’t matter as long as I am competitive, and I must have equal status to my teammate. »

« I have made it very clear to Renault. The situation is clear: when Melbourne comes, I want to be in a position to fight for the championship. It will not be my way of thinking at all if the other driver is stronger, » stated Kovalainen.

« But I must be able to start the season on a positive and fair note, and with equal treatment, this is very important to me, » he concluded.