Aug.25 (GMM) His ongoing Ferrari contract aside, Sebastian Vettel is perhaps Kimi Raikkonen's last remaining link with the world of formula one.

"I have hardly any contact with the other drivers," the 2007 world champion, who switched full-time to the world rally championship this year, told spox.com.

"Sometimes I play badminton with Vettel," he revealed, referring to his fellow Swiss resident.

So does the Finn think 23-year-old Vettel is ready to win the 2010 title?

"I think so. But mostly he's just the nicest guy of them all," said Raikkonen.

The 30-year-old has not announced his plans for 2011, but he has admitted that it is unlikely he will ever again appear on a grand prix grid.

"In formula one there are too many things that are more important than the race," said Raikkonen.

"It is too political and no one says what they think because they're afraid about being taken out of context."

In contrast, he is enjoying his new rallying foray, where at the recent German rally, he notched up his first career stage win.

"Yes, I love it," said Raikkonen. "It is very, very exciting and the biggest challenge of my career."

But he won't rule out one day returning to F1.

"I wouldn't say that. We'll see. First, let's take this season right to the end and then clarify some things. Then we'll see," said Raikkonen.

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