F1 | Abu Dhabi GP | Raikkonen ''happy'' and ''looking forward'' to family life after final F1 race, declares DNF on his last start ''part of the game''
It was a disappointing end for the Iceman on his 349th and final F1 start.
Kimi Raikkonen’s final F1 race didn’t go the way everyone would have wanted it to as he retired just before the halfway point thanks to what looked like a brake problem.
Just like in his first spell with the Hinwil-based squad, he scored points in his first race with the team after returning but retired in his final race on both occasions as well.
When asked about his early exit from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Finn didn’t seem too disappointed as his F1 career came to a close.
''Sometimes it goes like this and sometimes the technical things fail; we know how this sport is,'' he said.
''It was some issue with the wheeelnut; I had some small moment already on the lap before in turn 5 and then it just let go in turn 7.
''At least I didn’t hit the wall very hard; last time with Sauber it was a bit harder, so it’s just like 2001.
''It’s a part of the game and it’s okay. That’s life. Honestly the end result didn’t matter whatsoever to me.''
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Over and out. #KiitosKimi pic.twitter.com/tYqAB29iUG
— Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN (@alfaromeoracing) December 12, 2021
After 20 years competing in various racing categories, the 2007 F1 World Champion is hanging up his helmet as he looks forward to spending more time with his wife and children following a hugely successful career.
Raikkonen started 349 races, winning 21 of them. He took his one and only title fourteen years ago in a hugely dramatic finale at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
''I’m looking forward to it,'' he said.
''I’m happy it comes to an end; obviously it’s a long time [and] it went quickly the 20 years.
''But I’m looking forward to let’s say the normal life and more peaceful living.''
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