Lotus team principal Eric Boullier admits he might have a tough fight on his hands to keep star driver Kimi Raikkonen at the Enstone outfit in 2014.
The Finn is currently linked with a move to Red Bull to replace the retiring Mark Webber – something Christian Horner himself has admitted is an option.
Whilst some within the paddock claim the deal is done, Raikkonen is adamant nothing has been agreed despite Boullier admitting Red Bull are keen to sign the 33-year-old next season.
“It is true that Red Bull is pushing hard to get Kimi on board and I am sure that they will put together a very nice proposal for him, even easing his PR life,” he told the official F1 website.
“But again: it will be Kimi’s decision.”
The Frenchman will sit down with Raikkonen again this month to discuss a contract extension, but he says he won’t enter a bidding war with the energy drinks giant.
“We have spent some time talking already – and we will sit down again,” he added. “We will offer what we believe is the best for Kimi and for us.”
