Following reports of his possible retirement next season, Formula One driver Kimi Raikkonen says he has every intention of staying with the Ferrari team and in F1 in the coming season. Earlier this week, unconfirmed reports surfaced saying that Ferrari has come to an agreement to secure the services of Willams driver Valtteri Bottas for 2016.

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In a report by Autosport, Raikkonen spoke at length about his future in the legendary Italian team. "I made it very clear to the team what I would like to happen which is to be here next year, but I don't know any more than you guys," said Raikkonen.

The man who hardly ever speaks up was unusually vocal about his intended future in the sport. While he expressed his desire to stay with Ferrari, he admits that he is still being kept in the dark about his contract. The team itself does not want to affect the remainder of the season by making any rash decisions or announcements.

Raikkonen confirmed that Ferrari has an option to renew his contract for aother year.The team has not made any official announcements concerning their decision to take up the option or not. However, Italian media has been reporting that the team has come to an agreement with another Finnish driver for the 2016 season. Valtteri Bottas has reportedly been signed and is expected to partner up with Sebastian Vettel for the other Ferrari seat next year.

"I'll do my best and if it's not enough then it's not enough. We are not far away from where we can be maximum(sic) happy with where we finish, but obviously that is still not enough for us," said Raikkonen while talking to ESPN in another interview. He said that the team has been improving steadily but there is still a lot of work to be done before they will be in a position to consistently win races.

He said that only time will decide his fate and whichever direction it goes, he is not worried about his future. At the moment, Raikkonen stands 5^th in the world championship standings just a point behind possible replacement Valtteri Bottas. 

TagsKimi Raikkonen, ferrari, retirement, Valtteri Bottas, 2016 season, Formula One, rumors, Sebastian Vettel, contract, interview