Raikkonen Could Have Won, Says Dennis

Kimi Raikkonen could have challenged for his second win in a row in Sunday's Italian Grand Prix had he not been halted by an engine problem, according to McLaren boss Ron Dennis.

"It was a race several people could have won and Kimi was one of them," he said after the Finn, winner in Belgium two weeks ago, retired on the 13th lap. "However we were quickly out of contention after Kimi's engine suffered a water leak which ultimately damaged the engine."

Raikkonen, Championship runner-up last year, has failed to finish three of the last four races due to car problems and has suffered five engine failures this year.

"I think we could have been in a strong position for a podium finish today," said Raikkonen, who started seventh on the grid and was running third before the problem.

"It was a shame as I made a good start and gained a few places. Things were looking good and this is not the way I would have liked to finish the European season but at least we now have the pace to fight for victories."

Teammate David Coulthard finished sixth with Ferrari's Brazilian Rubens Barrichello leading the champions in a one-two in front of their home fans.