With Button signing for McLaren and Kimi's manger announcing that they were now focusing on Rally it seemed all hope that Kimi would make the 2010 grid was lost. Now it seems that Raikonnen is willing to consider signing up for Mercedes GP to spearhead their maiden season.

According to Raikonnen's manager Steve Robertson, Kimi is willing to sign for Mercedes as long as they can convince him that he will have a car that is capable of competing for wins and ultimately the world championship. He is also claiming that Raikonnen is not just after the money but is just after a good car to drive.

"Of course, money is a part of it but he doesn't need the money. He wants a car where he can show his talent. He was very frustrated this year by the fact that he could not win more races and challenge for the championship.

"When you have been in F1 for nine years and been a world champion then you need challenges – and for Kimi the challenge is to win championships and races." says Robertson.

It appears as though this may be Raikonnen's last chance last chance to drive in F1 in 2010. If this fails Raikonnen will turn to rallying for next year and then try and secure a top seat for the 2011 F1 championship.