Raikkonen: 'Relationship with Vettel based on friendship, not politics'

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Kimi Raikkonen says he's developed over the years a solid relationship with Ferrari team mate Sebastian Vettel, with friendship rather than politics at the forefront of their healthy association.

Raikkonen and Vettel are in their fourth season together at Ferrari, and while the Finn has yet to secure a win since rejoining the red squad in 2014, his efforts this season have yielded eight podiums, more than half of which were achieved consecutively in the last five races.

That still falls short of Vettel's four wins in 2018, but the Iceman is hopeful of prolonging his lease with the House of Maranello and remaining alongside a man who often praises Raikkonen's contribution.

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"It's better than if he would say that I'm an idiot! Actually, he says that also, but more rarely...," joked the Finn in an interview with Germany's Sport Bild.

"Seriously, we have always got along well. With him there are no politics or other bullshit but a totally normal friendship.

"He is very straight forward and hasn't changed with his success. Even when we sometimes crashed, it's not a topic anymore after we talked about it.

"Also after our crash in Singapore 2017 there were neither discussions nor silence. He is a guy who can admit that it was his mistake and I'm the same.

"It is much better to work in this nice atmosphere. That also makes the car quicker than if we would be at war with each other," added Raikkonen.

"We both have the same aim: make Ferrari the world champion. We complete each other very well in our ways to push the team."

Raikkonen's future is pretty much out of his hands, but reports out of Italy suggest that a change of the guard at Maranello following Sergio Marchionne's passing could see the 38-year-old remain in a seat that could also be attributed to the mercurial Charles Leclerc.

"Of course I would like to stay, but it's Ferrari's decision alone," said Raikkonen.

"I'm waiting just as much as you are.

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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.