Lotus hopes to retain Raikkonen through 2014

Kimi Raikkonen finds himself in high demand as Lotus attempts to retain him, while Red Bull wants to sign him. (AP/Luca Bruno)

SILVERSTONE, England — Facing possible interest from Red Bull, Lotus says it will try to persuade Kimi Raikkonen to stay in 2014.

Lotus boss Eric Boullier acknowledged Friday that Red Bull was interested in the 2007 champion following the announcement that Mark Webber was leaving the team to pursue sports car racing. But he insisted the 33-year-old Finn was “happy with what he has.”

Boullier said “we want Kimi” and that “we are talking with him and seeking some, let’s say, understanding of where we go and what we are building.”

Raikkonen, who returned to F1 with Lotus in 2011, has said he hasn’t decided on his future. His contract with Lotus ends after this season.

Red Bull’s Christian Horner said the team will decide later this summer on a replacement for Webber.

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