Marchionne told reporters at the Red Bull Ring that Raikkonen needed to show a "higher level of commitment", having been overshadowed by teammate Sebastian Vettel so far this year.

The German has won three races and leads the championship with 171 points, while Raikkonen is on 83 down in fifth position.

"I think Kimi has got to show a higher level of commitment to the process," Marchionne was quoted as saying by Reuters before the start of the Austrian Grand Prix, where Vettel was second and the Finn finished 20 seconds behind in fifth.

"There are days when I think he's a bit of a laggard, but we'll see," the Italian added.

Raikkonen's contract with Ferrari expires at the end of the year and several drivers have been linked to the second seat at the Maranello squad.

Asked about Marchionne's comments, the 2007 world champion insisted he is trying as hard as possible to get his season back on track.

"Obviously I want to do well," Raikkonen said. "My team wants to do well, and I can only do the best that I can. It's not like I'm not trying.

"Unfortunately it's not been very straightforward sometimes, but that's part of the plan and we keep pushing and I'm sure things will work out better."