After Marchionne's comments, Kimi the 'laggard' responds

©WRI2

Kimi Raikkonen was labeled a 'laggard' by Ferrari chairman Sergio Marchionne earlier today, but the Finn believes he is doing his best out on the race track.

Speaking to reporters in Austria, Marchionne said that Raikkonen needed a "higher level of commitment" to the Scuderia's process.

"I think Kimi has got to show a higher level of commitment to the process," Marchionne told Reuters on Sunday.

"There are days when I think he's a bit of a laggard, but we'll see," the Italian added.

Marchionne sends Raikkonen another warning

The comments come at a time when contract talks for 2018 are likely just around the corner for both Ferrari drivers.

Sebastian Vettel has raked in three wins so far this season while Raikkonen is fifth in the drivers' standings, some 88 points adrift of his team mate after the Austrian GP in which he finished fifth, and has yet to make his case for the Scuderia extending his stay at Maranello.

"Obviously I want to do well," Raikkonen said in response to Marchionne's remarks.

"My team wants to do well, and I can only do the best that I can. It's not like I'm not trying.

"Unfortunately it's not been very straightforward sometimes, but that's part of the plan and we keep pushing and I'm sure things will work out better."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.