Raikkonen and Lotus lay down marker

Kimi Raikkonen proved he and Lotus have what it takes this year to become Formula One world champions after storming to victory in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix over the weekend.

Lotus suggested during winter testing they had taken a step forward from last season, and they underlined that around Melbourne’s Albert Park as the Finn took the chequered flag for the 20th time in his F1 career.

The 2007 world champion was joined by two-times title winner Fernando Alonso and reigning three-times king Sebastian Vettel on the podium to at least dispel early claims the German and Red Bull would again run away with it this campaign.