Sauber Formula 1 chief Frederic Vasseur is expecting to learn imminently whether Kimi Raikkonen will be allowed to test with the team in Abu Dhabi at the end of next mont🍬h.

Current Ferrari F1 driver and recent race winner Raikkonen will join Sauber for 2019 on a two-year ꧂deal, partnering Antonio Giovinazzi next season.

The Finn will make his final appearance for Ferrari at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November, but has been linked with staying on at the Yas Marina Circuit in order to enjoy a first run-out withও Sauber in its 2018 car at the post𝓡-season test.

Speaking in Mexico, Sauber team boss Vasseur said he expected to learn over the race weekend whether or not Raikkonen would be permitted to test foಌr the t✨eam.

“We are still discussing, but I hope that we are able to take a decision during the weekend regarding Abu Dhabi,” V✤asseur said.

Raikkonen claimed his first win in over five years at the United States Grand Prix earlier this🌌 month, and currently sits third in the drivers’ championship with three races remainin🉐g this year.

Vasseur was confident it would act as a boost to Sau🐻ber to have a driver of Raikkonen’s quality joining the team, acting as a reference poin𒀰t

“At least it will be a reference, that you are sure that you have someone in the car who is able to make it. It’꧙s important for the engineer just to be focused on the car,” Vasseur said.

“He’s doing it, he did a pole position in Monza, he won la🤡st weekend in Austin and for sure it will be a good reference.

“I think we are still a yo🥂ung team, because we are also turning the company a lot, and to have this kind of leader it will be very helpful.”