Raikkonen hoping for bright future

Kimi Raikkonen is hoping his victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will prove to be a turning point for Lotus.

For Lotus, after a number of near misses this season, it appeared the win was never going to happen, with even team principal Eric Boullier telling fans after the Indian Grand Prix to wait until next year.

"I'm very happy for the team - and myself - but mainly for the team as it's been a really hard season for them, not an easy time," said Raikkonen. "Hopefully this will give them more belief, not just for the guys doing all the work, but also for the guys who run the team. I hope this can turn around the tables and give us many more good races and wins. If not this year, then next year."

The Lotus name has had its share of problems in recent times since it was revived in 2010, with this win its first since the 1987 US Grand Prix East in Detroit when the late Ayrton Senna was at the wheel.

"It's been a long time for them, I guess," added Raikkonen.

"It's a name. It's the same team, and it has been since Fernando was there, but just a different name. It's a great name for us, a good past, but you know I race for the team whatever the name is.

"I don't really care, so it's just for the guys who do all the work. Maybe it looks good in somebody's eyes but for me it really makes no difference."