No Sauber Deal Yet for Raikkonen, Says Manager

British Formula Renault Champion Kimi Raikkonen has not signed a contract with the Sauber team yet, according to his manager Steve Robertson.

The 21-year old Finn, who impressed team boss Peter Sauber a few weeks ago when he tested for the Swiss outfit at the Mugello circuit, was rumoured to have signed a contract for the 2001 season.

Robertson, however, confirmed the team’s interest in signing Raikkonen, and said that the deal is nearly done.

"We've been told it's an internal decision and they'll tell us when it's been made," Robertson said. "Then we will be able to tell everybody."

"We know there are people within the team pulling for Kimi, but we're no further down the line as regards to signing."

Raikkonen would be the least experienced driver of the field if he enters Formula One, as he has competed in only 23 races in single seater cars.

However, he admitted that he felt no pressure for competing against some of the world’s best drivers.

"I am not worried about the pressure," said Raikkonen. "I have already been driving for twelve years, and I am ready for this. I know that there is a great difference in speed but I also believe that I am capable of making the transition."