Boullier believes Räikkönen is well prepared
In 2012, Kimi Räikkönen will make his big return to Formula 1. Even though he did not have the maximum driving time due to suspension issues encountered on the E20, Eric Boullier believes that the 2007 world champion is well prepared before heading to Melbourne.
In Melbourne, Kimi Räikkönen will make his first Formula 1 start since the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009. After a two-year absence, many people believe it will take the 2007 world champion some time to regain his top speed.
For Eric Boullier, these two years spent in the WRC will not be a problem for Räikkönen, just like the week missed by the team in Barcelona. The Frenchman believes that his driver is ready to compete.
« I think he has already shown us what he can do, » explains Boullier to Autosport. It is true that the Finn began the winter in the best possible way by achieving the fastest time on the first day at Jérez and ended the winter tests on an equally positive note, with the absolute best time in the last session in Barcelona.
« We will never recover our four lost days and it is clear that they would have been useful. Both Kimi and Romain would have benefited from additional running, but that’s how it is. We have to deal with it and I have to say we made the most of the days we had. »
Since the announcement of his return, Kimi Räikkönen has often repeated that the main change F1 underwent during his absence was the switch from Bridgestone tires to Pirelli tires. Understanding the tires provided by the Italian manufacturer was therefore important during winter testing. This was also true for his teammate who drove for Renault in 2009 in place of Nelson Piquet Jr.
« Kimi is good, but Romain still lacks a bit of experience. However, he showed progress between Jerez and Barcelona in tire management for the race, so I am confident, » analyzes the Frenchman.
