Formula 1

Kimi Raikkonen: “The race was decided at the start”

1 Mins read
Kimi Raikkonen, Scuderia Ferrari. Credit: FOTO STUDIO COLOMBO PER FERRARI MEDIA

Kimi Raikkonen’s third place finish in the Russian Grand Prix will demonstrate to his critics that he is still capable of reaching the podium.

And the Finn was more impressed by the Scuderia Ferrari in Sochi than he has been at previous race weekends this year.

Unfortunately for Ferrari, Valtteri Bottas managed to pull ahead off the line and take the lead, which he ultimately kept until the chequered flag. This pushed Raikkonen down to third and there he stayed.

Though he appreciates the new piece of silverware he now has to display, Raikkonen is disappointed that he didn’t get off to a better start, moving up a place instead of moving down.

Overall, it has been a more positive weekend compared to the first three races,” he said. “I was happier with the car and when I needed to push I could get the lap time out.

“The race was decided at the start and I had a pretty bad one. I thought I was losing a lot, but I managed to get the position back and stay there.

My car was good all the way through the race, but after that, not a lot happened.  We tried our best but there was not much to do, I was just holding my position.  So, obviously, I’m happy for the podium, but I’m disappointed to lose a place at the start instead of gaining one.”

Ferrari now look ahead to Barcelona where they must keep an eye on the opposition as the entire grid are expecting upgrades. They at least have a strong foundation to build upon, perhaps even the strongest.

Now we need to keep working; small details can make a big difference in the end,” he continued.

Raikkonen also found time to congratulate fellow Finn Bottas on his maiden win in Formula 1.

I’m very happy for Valtteri who won his first race, I’m sure he will have a bright future,” he added.

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