Raikkonen confident of Ferrari power unit progress

Alfa Romeo driver Kimi Raikkonen is confident the new Ferrari power unit is an improvement after witnessing the team's first two days of Formula 1 pre-season testing.

The 2007 world champion and his team were hampered last season by an underpowered engine that cost all Ferrari-powered teams a considerable amount of lap time in a straight line.

After completing half a day in the Alfa Romeo on day one before team-mate Antonio Giovinazzi took over for a full schedule on the second day, Raikkonen revealed the progress made by the Italian manufacturer.

“Absolutely, they [Ferrari] have made progress and it is better but then you would expect that the other manufacturers have also improved," said Raikkonen.

"Compared to what we had last year we are in a better position. We will have to wait to see where it is when the racing starts, but it is going to be helpful for us.

"I'm sure it is better but I'm also sure that the others have not just stayed the same where they were last year so we will have to wait and see in the race where we are but I am sure it is a step forward."

Raikkonen's opening session of running was overshadowed by gusting winds and the beginning of a sandstorm on Friday, meaning much of the data collected will eventually be rendered obsolete.

The Finn, who is back on the cockpit for a full day of running on Sunday, recognised the steps made by the team between seasons, despite the weather conditions.

“The car felt ever so slightly different than last year but it feels pretty good in some places," he added.

"The wind made it difficult in other places of the track but I think it is a good starting place.”

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