Raikkonen focused on maximising every opportunity in 2020

Kimi Raikkonen expects things to feel strange in the Austrian Formula 1 paddock when the season begins this weekend.

Raikkonen begins his 18th season of grand prix racing in an unfamiliar atmosphere, with empty grandstands, deserted paddocks and socially distanced working.

“It will feel a bit weird to get back to racing in these conditions, but I am sure that once we are in the car we will not focus on the restrictions but just on doing the best job we can," said the Finn.

"The break was a chance to spend time with my family but now we have to focus on the job."

Following on from seven months without Formula 1 racing, a rushed period of eight races in ten weeks will be a shock to the system for some.

The final calendar is also yet to be announced, leaving drivers none the wiser as to how many opportunities they will have to bag points across the year.

Raikkonen says this lack of information is exactly why drivers must be willing to seize any opportunity that presents itself.

He added: "With so many races in so little time, we need to make the most of every event and score points every time we get the chance. It’s hard to tell where everyone stands, but we will find out soon enough."

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