Newly-installed Ferrari CEO Louis C. Camilleri has stressed that there is “no timeframe” involved in sorting the team’s 2019 driver line-up, but labelled Kimi Raikkonen as a "dear friend" during the interview.
Camilleri was appointed to the role of CEO after Sergio Marchionne’s health rapidly deteriorated in July, with the Italian-Canadian succumbing to his illness mere days later.
Camilleri made his first appearance in the paddock on Friday since taking on his new position, attending the free practice sessions ahead of the Italian Grand Prix.
Ferrari’s 2019 Formula 1 driver line-up still needs resolving, the only one of the top three teams yet to sort its pairing for next season.
Sebastian Vettel holds a contract through 2020 but Raikkonen and protégé Charles Leclerc, currently competing for Sauber, are understood to be in contention.
Raikkonen is in his eighth season, across two spells, of racing in Formula 1 for Ferrari, while reigning F2 champion Leclerc stepped up to the premier class this year with Sauber, and has impressed.
"Actually I know Kimi very well," said Camilleri. "He's a dear friend, has been for a long time.
"As for the decision-making process, it's a team decision. As Maurizio [Arrivabene] is our Team Principal, ultimately he'll take the decision, but we will discuss it. Once we're ready, we'll tell you
"When we take that decision, and there is no timeframe, you will be the second [person] to know."
Camilleri’s team finished 1-2 during the dry second practice session at Monza, with Vettel leading Raikkonen.
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