Should Kimi Raikkonen return to F1 with Williams?

Here's an opinion piece on the possiblity of Kimi Raikkonen returning to Formula One in 2012.

Throughout this weekend, rumours have been circulating in the Singapore paddock that 2007 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen might be returning to Formula One in 2012 with Williams, to replace either Rubens Barrichello or Pastor Maldonado

Since he was replaced at Ferrari by Fernando Alonso after 2009, Raikkonen hasn't been in F1. McLaren, Renault and Red Bull were thought to be interested, as were the three new teams. But the "Flying Finn" hasn't raced since finishing 12th at Abu Dhabi in 2009.

Raikkonen's last race, Abu Dhabi 2009

Instead he has been focusing on rallying, but always with Formula One thinking about the former champion. Raikkonen is understood to have had talks with Williams about a possible return next year. It is believed that Williams are "seriously considering" the oppurtunity, as we approach the end of 2011, a year to forget for the Grove outfit, who have scored only 5 points so far this season.

Pastor Maldonado certianly hasn't lived up to his name, while Rubens Barrichello has been somewhat "invisible" despite been team leader. Therefore Raikkonen would surely be a good signing for a team in trouble, a former world champion, talented driver? I'm not sure. I think I could estimate that most would agree with me if I were to say that Raikkonen was not the most personable driver to ever have graced the F1 paddock, and while he is talented, sometimes it comes across that the Finn didn't enjoy Formula One. Talented? Definitely. But as interested as say, Alonso, or Vettel? Not sure.

There's no doubt he could help Williams, who need help, but in his plans to return to f1, he has been stubborn, by implying that he would only drive for a big team, by refusing to go to Renault in 2010, who did very well that year.

In short, I don't think Raikkonen should come to Williams. I would much rather see him help develop one of the new teams, Lotus, Hispania or Virgin. They would benefit from advice and experience of a former world champion more than Williams would.

Image from F1Fanatic