Schuey set to groom Raikkonen at Ferrari

FERRARI aim to exploit Michael Schumacher’s new role as consultant to take away the question marks over Kimi Raikkonen.

The Finn has replaced seven-times world champion Schumacher at the Maranello marque, after his retirement at the end of last season.

Raikkonen, though, has yet to drive for Ferrari because his contract with former team McLaren did not expire until the end of last year.

Although team boss Jean Todt has no doubt over Raikkonen’s talent, he believes Schumacher’s experience at Ferrari could help the 27-year-old settle in more quickly.

“We had to think about the future, and Raikkonen was the driver best suited to Ferrari’s ambitions.

“He’s very strong, quick, and his age — 27 years old — allows for many years of work at Ferrari.

“Raikkonen is still a question mark here, and this is where Schumacher could intervene in his new role.

“We intend to take advantage of Schumacher’s knowledge and experience, which I consider unique in the world.”

Meanwhile Jacques Villeneuve’s dream of winning all four of motor racing’s major titles should move a step closer to reality today.

Peugeot are due to confirm he will form part of their six-driver line-up for this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours race.

Three-times Champ Car champion Sebastian Bourdais and current Ferrari test driver Marc Gene are also set to be named. Villeneuve is one of only three drivers — Mario Andretti and Emerson Fittipaldi the others — to win the Indianapolis 500, Champ Car series and a Formula One world title.

The 35-year-old Canadian wants to become the first racer to win the quartet of honours.