Kimi Raikkonen, the "Iceman" and 2007 F1 champion, recently posted a characteristically sarcastic comment on F1's Instagram, which quickly went viral. This was in response to a filmed discussion celebrating the sport's 75th anniversary, featuring seven F1 title-winners, to which Raikkonen was notably absent.
Why it matters:
Raikkonen's simple yet potent remark highlights his enduring popularity and unique personality, captivating F1 fans even years after his retirement. It also underscores the significance of such champion gatherings in reflecting on F1's rich history and critical developments.
The details:
- Champion Gathering: F1 organized a discussion at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, bringing together Alain Prost, Jackie Stewart, Emerson Fittipaldi, Mika Hakkinen, Mario Andretti, Nigel Mansell, and Jacques Villeneuve. These seven champions collectively hold 14 world titles.
- Raikkonen's Viral Comment: The 2007 Ferrari champion, known for his laconic style, was not invited. His Instagram comment, "Thanks for the invite," quickly amassed over 28,000 likes, resonating with fans who appreciate his trademark sarcasm.
- Post-Retirement: Since retiring from F1 at the end of 2021, Raikkonen has maintained a low profile, making rare public appearances. His career spanned 19 seasons, yielding 21 wins, 103 podiums, and a world championship.
Roundtable highlights:
The champions discussed F1's evolution, focusing on key themes:
- Safety: Jacques Villeneuve cited Ayrton Senna's 1994 death as a turning point ("before Senna and after Senna"). Emerson Fittipaldi recalled the grim safety statistics of his era, and Jackie Stewart's early advocacy for safety, alongside Sid Watkins' role in improved medical facilities, were praised.
- Technology: Mario Andretti highlighted ground effect aerodynamics as "revolutionising the modern era."
- Enduring Passion: Despite years away from the cockpit, the champions universally agreed that the "fire for racing" never fades.
This gathering offered a rare glimpse into the shared experiences of F1's greatest names, solidifying their legacies.