With Ferrari traditionally using the Monza weekend to announce its driver line-up for the following season, it was hoped the Italian team might confirm whether Kimi Raikkonen is to be retained for 2019 or Charles Leclerc will be promoted to partner Sebastian Vettel.

However, attending his first Italian Grand Prix as Ferrari's chief executive officer, Louis Camilleri was unable - or unwilling - to shed light on the matter.

"We have not taken a decision yet," he told reporters. "When we take that decision, and there is no timeframe, you will be the second to know.

"I know Kimi very well," he added. "He's a dear friend, has been for a long time.

"As for the decision-making process, it's a team decision," he said. "As Maurizio is our team principal, ultimately he'll take the decision, but we will discuss it. Once we're ready, we'll tell you."

Speaking yesterday, Raikkonen, who is having a strong season, and was unlucky not to make a sixth consecutive podium finish in Belgium last week, was adamant that he hopes to continue racing in 2019.

"I enjoy the racing; I don't think that's a secret," he said. "The rest not, but that's part of the job.

"Do I want to race?" he continued. "Yes, otherwise I wouldn't be here today. I don't see that's suddenly going to disappear. Who knows, it might be, but I doubt it. Like I said, I don't know, so we'll see what happens.

"I don't feel that I drive any differently than ten years ago," he insisted. "I think I drive pretty well, in my books at least, and that's enough for me. I wouldn't be here if I didn't feel I can drive as well as I feel that I should."