Formula One news

Todt plays down Kimi troubles

Jean Todt has dismissed reports of unrest in the team's driver line-up. Felipe Massa has emerged as the leading driver ahead of the more-fancied Kimi Raikkonen this season with it being suggested that Raikkonen may be feeling isolated in the team. There was a massive void to fill when seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher retired at the end of last year and with the German still shadowing the Maranello-based outfit, Raikkonen cannot be blamed for feeling the pressure.

"I don't see the problems with Kimi settling in the team because he is completely settled - he's very happy and everybody loves him," the 61-year-old Frenchman told the Times.

"For me, they [Massa and Räikkönen] are at the same level. I must say I know Felipe better because he has been in the team longer, but I like Kimi very much. It may seem strange to you, but for me he is a charming guy, a bit shy and introverted, not a big communicator and very dedicated and talented."

Meanwhile Todt shed light on Massa's blossoming relationship with Schumacher who is apparently helping the Brazilian on the mental side of his preparation.

"Yesterday I saw them coming out from the team briefing, they were talking and you can really see there is big respect and harmony between them," Todt said. "Probably that is helping Felipe psychologically to know that a guy like Michael is a reference point for him in this business."

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