"My hunger for F1 has recently become overwhelming," said Kimi. "It was an easy choice to return with Lotus Renault GP." 

 "I have been impressed by the scope of the team's ambition. Now I'm looking forward to playing an important role in pushing the team to the very front of the grid."

Kimi Raikkonen could be in line for a surprise return to Formula One next season, having recently visited the Williams team factory in Grove.

The visit was confirmed by a team spokesman, who declined to give details about the visit. “It was a private visit, therefore we have no comment to make,” said a spokesman for the Williams team .