Raikkonen puzzled by Rosberg's pundit role

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Kimi Raikkonen says he doesn't understand why Nico Rosberg retired from Formula 1 only to spend so much time in the paddock, mainly as a commentator for several TV broadcasters.

The Ferrari driver, who just published his autobiography, has yet to be confirmed at the Scuderia for next season, with speculation emerging this week that a new one-year deal was imminent.

Should he be left out in the cold, and forced to retire from F1, the 2007 world champion says that staying away from the paddock would not be difficult for him.

"No it will not be hard to stop this job," Raikkonen said at the launch of his book in Helsinki.

"I will be relieved when all of the things not involving driving will end. The driving is great but nothing else."

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Regardless of when he retires from F1 or how he will occupy himself, Iceman insists he won't be following Rosberg's example.

"When he explained why (he is stopping) I thought it was cool and I understood," he said.

"Now he's standing there with a microphone. I cannot understand why given the reasons he gave for wanting to leave."

However, Raikkonen could remain involved with the sport in some capacity.

"Yes, I'm interested in doing something like developing a car, but in the background not in public. It will not be standing with a microphone," he added.

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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.