Kimi Raikkonen has denied that he desperately needs a Grand Prix win. The 38-year-old Finn is not commenting on widespread speculation that Ferrari intends to replace him for 2019 with rising talent Charles Leclerc.
Raikkonen's form has been up and down over the past seasons, including a solid start in 2018 that now sees him struggling in qualifying.
"I don't know why it's been more difficult in the last qualifying sessions compared to the first ones, but we are working to improve the situation," he said at Paul Ricard. "You do not get worse in just a few sessions."
So he denied that a sudden burst in form now, including what would be his first win since 2013, will make all the difference in what could be his last ever season in F1.
"It does not affect the way I drive," he said. "I've already won in the past and I don't see why I can't win again. Ok I haven't won for a while, but when you win, you're not a different driver."
Replies (6)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
You are right Kimi, you dont get worst in just a few sessions, you havent impressed for quite a few years now. And honestly, it'd be better for Kimi and for us who used to like him if he retired before it gets worse.
Kean
Posts: 692
I enjoyed watching him race up until 2014, when he was paired up with Alonso. Since then he has not been the same old Kimi.
boudy
Posts: 1,168
I agree CALLE.ITW
There should be an good shake-up of places, Hamilton moving to Ferrari, Vettel to Mercedes, Kimi should retire, Ricciardo to Ferrari, Ocon to Mercedes, Redbull with Verstappen and Gasly, Bottas to Williams. Sainz/Hulk at Renault.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
Not to worry... He will never win a race again. He will keep making mistakes when it matters and sulking afterwards
mcbhargav
Posts: 1,332
making mistakes is his forte. But, sulking... not too sure if you are talking about Kimi.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Yeah, he isnt really sulking. He is in fact not doing anything at all really. Which is a problem. :/