According to Finland's Turun Sanomat, Renault might be courting as a possible sponsor the American credit card multinational MasterCard. 

Citing paddock rumours, the report said MasterCard would be interested in the deal "if Raikkonen would drive as Robert Kubica's teammate". While it was widely expected that the Finn, who left his Ferrari contract one year early to race in the world rally championship this year, was not keen to return to formula one as early as 2011, the possibility of a "big name" sponsor would provide financial assurances for Raikkonen, who demands a high salary.

Meanwhile, Raikkonen's manager Steve Robertson has reportedly denied that even exploratory talks with Renault have been held.

MasterCard sponsored Lola's stillborn F1 effort in 1997, and the Jordan team in 1998-2001.

Raikkonen to Test Pirelli Tyres
Raikkonen could also be called upon to test the new Pirelli rubber ahead of next year's Championship.

With Pirelli set to replace Bridgestone next season, the Italian tyre manufacturer has already revealed that they will most likely conduct their first tests using a GP2 car.

And as for the test driver, that honour could go to former F1 driver Raikkonen as the tyre supplier won't be permitted to use one of the current racers.

"But I don't know whether Kimi Raikkonen would be interested in such a proposal," Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery told Tarun Sanomat.

However, the Finn's manager says he may be.

"Currently Kimi is totally focused on what he is doing (rallying). But if Pirelli do approach us we would, of course, discuss the matter," said Steve Robertson.

"It depends on whether Kimi is interested in the challenge and how it would fit in with his schedule."