Unpaid Kimi Raikkonen says cash row prompted exit from Lotus

Former world champion Kimi Raikkonen on Thursday said a row over money prompted his departure from Lotus for Ferrari, revealing that he hadn't received his salary from the British team. (Read: Ferrrari say rivals scared over Kimi Raikkonen)

The Finn, whose high-profile move has been the talk of Formula One, acknowledged that he was effectively racing for free at this week's Singapore Grand Prix. (Also read: Jenson Button says Ferrari's decision to re-hire Raikkonen may backfire)

"I like to race, obviously that's the only reason why I'm here," said Raikkonen, detailing his reasons for the move for the first time. (Read: Ferrari pairing explosive, says Michael Schumacher)

"It doesn't matter which team it is. Obviously the reason why (there's a problem with money) you would have to ask the team, but the reason why I left the team was really on the money side.

"And with things like they are, I don't have my salary. It's an unfortunate thing but I like to try and help the team as much as I can and I like to race."

Raikkonen did not go into further detail but reports have said Lotus have fallen behind in payments to the 2007 world title-holder.

The Autosport.com website said the Finn had been demanding financial guarantees to stay with the team next year after the payments were delayed.

The comments from Raikkonen about his reasons for moving will not ease fears about how he will re-settle with Ferrari, his former team, and work with Fernando Alonso, who is also a former world champion.