Autosportfoto

Raikkonen negotiating F1 return with Williams

Over the course of his nine seasons on the Formula One grid, Kimi Raikkonen only drove for a handful of teams, making his debut with Sauber before switching to McLaren in only his second season, then to Ferrari after five seasons for another three more that included his solitary World Championship. But since his departure two years ago, the Finnish driver has been linked to more teams than he ever drove for in the first place.

Rumors have had him plotting his return with Renault, Red Bull, Toyota, Mercedes GP and even a test role with Pirelli. All this in addition to competing in the World Rally Championship, NASCAR, and potentially at Le Mans, making the 2007 World Champion arguably the most versatile - and enigmatic - pro driver in the world. But while previous negotiations have apparently all failed (or failed to satisfy his conditions) they're not about to die. At least the rumors won't.

The latest reports place Raikkonen at Williams, the team reportedly confirming that it recently hosted the former champ at its headquarters in Grove, England. Of course, that doesn't mean that Kimi has signed with the once-great team, but we can't imagine him sightseeing in the British midlands without purpose, either.

It's no great secret that Williams - wielder of seven Drivers' Titles, nine Constructors' Championships and 113 grand prix victories - is very far from its glory days, but with a new engine supply deal with Renault and an injection of fresh management and cash, there's no telling how quickly the team could find its pace once again. Especially with a proven talent like Raikkonen behind the wheel.