Kimi recovering after surgery

AUSTIN, USA - Kimi Raikkonen's back surgery has been successful and Formula 1 veteran will start a recovery programme later in November 2013, reports Lotus.

The team said in a statement at the 2013 US Grand Prix, where Raikkonen has been replaced by compatriot Heikki Kovalainen for the final two races of the season, that the driver was operated on in Strasbourg, France.

The team said: "Lotus F1 Team is happy to report that the operation was totally successful. Kimi will now rest for a few days and he will start his recovery process as early as next week. Everyone at the track and at Enstone wishes him a quick recovery."

Raikkonen, currently third overall in the championship, will not race again for Lotus since he is joining Ferrari after next week's season-ender in Brazil.

He suffered back pain during the Singapore Grand Prix in September and decided to have the operation instead of completing the season. Raikkonen has also complained about not being paid by his team.