Mar.5 (GMM) When the FIA initially banned drivers from being managed by crashgate conspirator Flavio Briatore, Heikki Kovalainen elected not to replace the flamboyant Italian.

Finland's Turun Sanomat reveals that the 28-year-old negotiated his own contract when he signed to switch from McLaren to the new Lotus team for 2010.

"I decided to do all the negotiations myself," said the Finn. "For me it's very important to know exactly what you are signing.

"I know what to do and it gives me peace of mind."

The newspaper said there had been talks with Toyota and Force India when it became clear that McLaren were not retaining Kovalainen for 2010.

But he also phoned Mike Gascoyne.

"I asked him what is the situation with Lotus and told him I would be interested to hear about the project," said Kovalainen.

He admitted that he is "quite satisfied" with the contract he negotiated, revealing that both he and Jarno Trulli receive a salary.

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