Raikkonen begins simulator work with Ferrari

Kimi Raikkonen has begun his preparations for the 2014 Formula One season by visiting Ferrari’s factory in Maranello to undertake simulator work.

The 34-year-old Finn, who missed the final two races of the 2013 season after electing to undergo back surgery, has been reacquainting himself with the Scuderia having initially raced for the Italian team between 2007 and 2009.

“It’s good to be back at work,” said Raikkonen, who won the world championship in his debut season with Ferrari in 2007.

“I began by getting used to all the new systems and procedures that we will use this year. From this point of view, the simulator is really very useful. It’s true there’s lots to do, but the workload is not much different to what it was in the past.

“For me, these days in Maranello are also an opportunity to be with the team and spend a bit more time with my many friends here.”

Raikkonen will continue working with his engineers and in the simulator at Maranello until Wednesday. The opening four-day pre-season test gets underway at Jerez on January 28, although Ferrari have yet to confirm their attendance at the Spanish session.