Sauber Admits McLaren Interest in Raikkonen

Peter Sauber has admitted the McLaren team have approached him in order to sign young rookie driver Kimi Raikkonen.

"Yes, McLaren is interested in Kimi," Sauber told Italian television channel RAI at the Belgian Grand Prix. "There will be negotiations in the next weeks. Kimi is a driver of the future and we will for sure take that into account.

"He is a young driver, but he's already fantastic, and he's in the middle of a lot of rumours. Some of that is true: two top teams want him.

"I'd prefer not to let him go, but it depends on what and how much I am offered. If he will go, I will surely have made a good deal."

Sauber's comments confirm the rumours that for some time have been surrounding the 21-year old driver, who has impressed in his first Formula One season with the Hinwil-based team, having scored eight points to help his team enjoy their most successful season up to date.

Sauber, however, did not reveal if the possible deal would mean Raikkonen is to drive for McLaren in 2002, as the Woking-based outfit are yet to reveal their driver line-up for next season.

It is believed that Scot David Coulthard has already signed a contract to stay in 2002, while Mika Hakkinen's future is still in doubt.