Philosophical Raikkonen Looks to 2004

Kimi Raikkonen put a positive spin on narrowly losing out to Michael Schumacher in the Formula One World Championship on Sunday.

The 23-year-old Finn, who needed to win the season-ending Japanese Grand Prix and hope Schumacher failed to score in order to become the youngest ever World Champion, said that his McLaren team could build on their 2003 showing.

"This year we improved and we were more reliable, but maybe not up there with the speed," said Raikkonen, who finished second behind Brazilian Rubens Barrichello at Suzuka. "It's not very nice to finish second almost every time. I think next year we can improve and fight for the wins more."

Raikkonen, who won his first Grand Prix in Malaysia this year and finished second in six other races before Sunday, looked in with the chance of an incredible upset after Schumacher shunted Japanese driver Takuma Sato and damaged the nose of his Ferrari on lap seven.

"I guess you always think there is a chance until you go over the line," said Raikkonen. "Many times people have retired on the last lap but this time it wasn't enough to win the title. Hopefully next year we will be quicker."

Raikkonen paid tribute to Schumacher, who returned to the track after a pitstop to repair his car and finished eighth to secure the point that would have given him a record sixth title even if the Finn had won the race.

"This year we were just not quick enough to win the title but at least we didn't lose because of bad driving," said the Finn.