Raikkonen puzzled by 'weird' engine failures

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On the back of another race which saw Ferrari sidelined by en engine failure, Kimi Raikkonen says he is at a loss to explain the team's recent power unit troubles.

Sebastian Vettel retired after just four laps from yesterday's Japanese GP because of a faulty spark plug. The setback came one week after both Raikkonen and Vettel suffered engine issues in Sepang, with the Finn failing to even start the Malaysia GP.

"It’s far from ideal for any of us when we have technical issues," said Raikkonen, who finished yesterday's race fifth.

"It’s a bit weird because on Saturdays, okay Seb had an issue before qualifying [in Malaysia], but it has been twice now the cars are running fine in qualifying and the next time we go out on Sunday we found some issues."

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The consecutive problems have dealt a massive blow to Vettel's chances of winning the world championship, as Hamilton continues to inexorably increase his lead.

"Obviously, it’s nothing we expect, it comes out of nothing," added Raikkonen.

"We have to see why it is happening and fix it. It’s one of those things that suddenly hits and there’s not an awful lot that you can do.

"There are things we have to fix. It’s not nice, but I think we have pretty good speed normally but if you don’t finish the race, it’s no use.

"We have to fix them and find out why lately we have had these issues."

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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.