Raikkonen not worried by Montoya challenge

Finland’s Kimi Raikkonen insists he is not concerned about the prospect of partnering Juan Pablo Montoya at McLaren.

The 23-year-old is expected to partner Montoya in 2005 when the Colombian moves from Williams, leaving current team-mate David Coulthard searching for a drive.

Yet when asked today about teaming up with Montoya after next season, Raikkonen said: “Juan Pablo is not my team-mate yet.

“But whatever happens next season on the track between Montoya and myself it will have nothing to do with what could happen in 2005. I see him as just an opponent, like David is. I always try to beat my team-mate whoever he is.”

Raikkonen has not been confirmed for 2005 but after only losing the drivers' title by two points to Ferrari’s Michael Schumacher last season – beating Montoya into third spot – is expected to get the nod over Coulthard.

McLaren’s decision to confirm Montoya so early has raised speculation they are trying to force Williams into releasing the South American for 2004 despite insisting yesterday that Coulthard and Raikkonen will be in the cockpit next season.

There are question marks over whether engine suppliers BMW will want Montoya testing parts next year then moving to McLaren, who are powered by the German car company’s arch-rivals Mercedes.

Coulthard is understood to have a clause in his contract guaranteeing his £6m salary next year should he be forced to give up his seat for Montoya.

Raikkonen, meanwhile, is recovering after undergoing an operation on his right wrist last month that could prevent him resuming testing until January.

He needed 10 stitches after aggravating a problem he initially sustained in 2001, his first season in Formula One.

“The wrist is still very sore,” said Raikkonen at a charity event in Finland today. “I can’t do much – except sign a few autographs.”

Raikkonen scored his maiden victory in Malaysia last March. It proved to be his only win but a succession of podium finishes enabled him to take Ferrari rival Schumacher right to the wire before losing out.