Williams, Barrichello: “I'm not worried about the rumors about Raikkonen arriving in my place”

Rubens Barrichello says he has no intention of wasting time worrying about losing his place in Formula 1, following rumors of Kimi Raikkonen returning to Formula 1 to replace the Brazilian driver at Williams next year.

Raikkonen has visited the Williams factory, but the team has so far refused to comment on Raikkonen's situation, and has only confirmed that the Finn paid a 'private' visit to the factory recently for unspecified reasons.

“I have nothing to comment on,” said Barrichello ahead of the Singapore GP. “My Twitter account has gone crazy with people asking me things.”

“Whatever people say about me, it's not true. Every time I meet my family, they ask me crazy things they read in the press. Saying something now will make more noise.”

“I definitely want to race next year. This is my goal. I feel more prepared than at any other time."

He added: “Williams, unfortunately, didn't give me a good car but we have to move forward, stay together to have a good car and improve next year.”

“I've had 19 fantastic years [in F1] and I want to do my 20s. If all goes well, it will be my 20th year in Formula 1."

Barrichello's teammate Maldonado has a place at Williams secured for next year, thanks to the team's sponsorship contract with the Venezuelan oil company PDVSA.

Other “paying” drivers could be on Williams' list for next year such as Bruno Senna, Adrian Sutil and Giedo van der Garde.