2007 world champion Kimi Raikkonen admits he doesn't expect to be amongst those battling for the title in 2012.
The Finn has returned to Formula 1 following a two-year absence to link up with Lotus after competing in the World Rally Championship.
Raikkonen is keen to pick up another Drivers' Championship but he admits his chances of landing the title in 2012 are slim.
"I expect to have to fight in the middle group, but it will not be a drama. It's no different to my last year at Ferrari (when he finished sixth)," he told the BBC.
While he does not expect to be challenging in 2012, Raikkonen admits he would like to add to his one world title.
Speaking to Turun Sanomat, the Finn said: "Of course the championship is the goal. It's fine to try it, but I am not obsessed about having another championship or not."
Raikkonen got back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car when he took part in a private test session in Valencia but he will only get the chance to drive the 2012 car when pre-season testing gets underway next week.
"Generally, if the car feels good right from the start, you are usually competitive (for the season)," he said.
"The races I don't think are so different (from 2009). Vettel was strong even then even though there is much more passing now, but that depends on the moving wing. I haven't tried it (DRS) yet, or the KERS because it was the 2010 car (at Valencia). But it's just one or two more buttons to push."