Kimi Raikkonen has successful back operation and is poised to start recovery

Kimi Raikkonen has had successful back surgery

The Finn has been forced to miss the final two grands prix of the season due to a long-standing back problem and he underwent surgery at The University Hospital of Strasbourg on Thursday.

"As planned, Kimi Raikkonen underwent back surgery yesterday at The University Hospital of Strasbourg," a statement read.

"Lotus F1 Team is happy to report that the operation was totally successful, according to Professor Afshin Gangi.

"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 will leave Lotus at the end of the season and join Ferrari for 2014.