Ferrari's decision to extend Kimi Raikkonen's grand prix career for another year will divide opinion in Formula 1. Raikkonen's legion of loyal fans will delight in the knowledge that arguably the most naturally gifted driver of his generation will remain in F1 for a 16th season. Raikkonen's many critics will argue this is yet another season too far for an underperforming star who should have long ago made way for fresher blood.
Ferrari's decision is unimaginative and conservative, certainly. A strong case can be made to say it is absolutely the wrong move.
Since Raikkonen returned to Ferrari in 2014 he has been destroyed by Fernando Alonso and subjugated by Sebastian Vettel. Raikkonen is without a victory in 70 starts since he rejoined the Scuderia, and has often been the subject of public criticism from the team's management for abject performances. This season, twice, Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne has questioned Raikkonen's ability to properly harness his abilities to the Maranello cause.