Kimi starts his rally career [Archive] - Page 3

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janvanvurpa

16th February 2010, 20:24

Please, some of you Finns, tell "Kimmie-dawg" he looks very foolish wearing his hat like he's doing.
Tell him to get a hat that fits.

Daniel

16th February 2010, 20:28

All the cool kids are doing it Jan

A.F.F.

16th February 2010, 20:47

Please, some of you Finns, tell "Kimmie-dawg" he looks very foolish wearing his hat like he's doing.
Tell him to get a hat that fits.

Sorry... it's hard to take with a shovel if you're given with a spoon :mark:

That's how Kimi roll these days.

Langdale Forest

16th February 2010, 21:19

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=6995&desc=%27Raikkonen+effect%27+rockets+WRC+figures+to +record+highs+

the human race has a new leader and figure to follow.

It looks like he is trying to laugh. :p

How can he lead the human race? :confused: :rolleyes:

A.F.F.

16th February 2010, 21:20

How can he lead the human race? :confused: :rolleyes:

You have to remember that for our friend Mr.Mousefart, the standards for it are a little bit lower than to the rest of us :p :

Mirek

16th February 2010, 21:23

Don't be harsh on him. People often wander when they miss some food for a long time :D

Langdale Forest

16th February 2010, 21:27

You have to remember that for our friend Mr.Mousefart, the standards for it are a little bit lower than to the rest of us :p :

;)

janvanvurpa

16th February 2010, 23:16

All the cool kids are doing it Jan

Yeah? Well they look like idiots.

Only thing sillier looking than a Finn who should know better is middle aged white LA suburbanite men posing as Ghetto rap stars posing as rally driver.

MJW

16th February 2010, 23:51

Boudica

17th February 2010, 00:13

Yeah? Well they look like idiots.

Only thing sillier looking than a Finn who should know better is middle aged white LA suburbanite men posing as Ghetto rap stars posing as rally driver.

:D

Yes, there are many people who doesn't like that cap and some other just cant wait to buy the new Red Bull collection, although I think they are in the minority. Atleast Block's cap is a bit bigger then Kimi's. While on the subject of head gear, Red Bull must have the largest cap and head gear collection that I have ever seen in team clothing. I have properly seen 5 - 6 different designs this weekend. The best hands down, was the bunny ear hip hop cap, it wouldn't surprise me if they have a Red Bull Sombrero for Mexico.

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/1409/sweden39.jpg
http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/7016/hat1c.jpg
:D

Tomi

17th February 2010, 00:58

Why is Kimi wearing eddie irvine's cap in the pic?

Boudica

17th February 2010, 01:06

Why is Kimi wearing eddie irvine's cap in the pic?

He is wearing his own cap, it is just a little bit larger then usual. :D

Boudica

17th February 2010, 02:06

The Swedish journalist said that Kimi didn't give interviews directly after the rally was over, but I have just seen a few such interviews and pictures. It is certainly a bit strange. :)

http://www.rallybuzz.com/raikkonen-interview-rallybuzz/
http://www.almrally.ru/index.php/wor...imi-rajkkonena (http://www.almrally.ru/index.php/worldrally/1829-ralli-shvecii-ekskluzivnoje-intervu-kimi-rajkkonena)
http://www.redbullrally.com/index.php?lang=eng&fresh=1

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 15:31

That picture where Kimi is wearing that massive Ferrari hat is probably fake.

Boudica

17th February 2010, 16:48

That picture where Kimi is wearing that massive Ferrari hat is probably fake.

Well yes, it is actually suppose to be a joke. :p

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 18:21

http://blog.niot.net/blog-images/kimi-raikkonen-signs-with-citroen-red-bull-rally-team.jpg
His hair looks a bit of a mess! ;)

Tomi

17th February 2010, 18:27

http://blog.niot.net/blog-images/kimi-raikkonen-signs-with-citroen-red-bull-rally-team.jpg
His hair looks a bit of a mess! ;)

Lol, he better watch out, soon he might get a call from image consult Morrie Chandler :D

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 18:32

Just because of his hair? ;)

Barreis

17th February 2010, 18:36

Morrie Chandler should be replaced.. Todt made more in few months then Chandler from start of his mandate..

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 18:38

As long as the WRC is run well I am not bothered about who is in charge of it.

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 19:30

can we have more pictures of kimmi in this thread ? too much text and no photo...a photo is worth a thousand words and in case of kimmi at least 12.347 per photo.

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 19:39

A picture to keep you happy. ;) :p

http://f1badger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Kimi-Raikkonen-crashes-Rally-Finland2.jpg

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 20:07

no i mean picture of his face...

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 20:10

http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Nesta+Oil+Rally+Finland+Shakedown+zGPJ6mOpkItl.jpg
http://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liveimages/Kimi+Raikkonen_2370_19291571_0_0_7017824_300.jpght tp://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liveimages/Kimi+Raikkonen_2370_19291571_0_0_7017824_300.jpg

hmm :rolleyes:

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 20:22

does he still have sposorship contract with the italian fast car manufacturer ??

pettersolberg29

17th February 2010, 20:23

How about...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn158/pettersolberg29/Block_stpr09_face1.jpg

Sorry, wrong guy... ;)

JFL

17th February 2010, 20:27

I had a trainee at work today(Schooltired kid) And I asked him why he did'nt bend the cap.. He looked at me and said : "haha that just looks stupid.." Time changes.. when I was a teen (90's) it had to be a curve on the ccap.. If it was big and straight, you looked stupid.. ;)

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 20:42

in those pictures he has a bent cap and a normal one he just wants to please everyone...

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 21:22

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/03/26/sports/26f1-480.jpg

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 21:34

How about...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn158/pettersolberg29/Block_stpr09_face1.jpg

Sorry, wrong guy... ;)

not fair to put another legend in a legends thread.....Blok deserves his own thread and report texts....

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 21:35

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/03/26/sports/26f1-480.jpg

his F1 dys are over...he did what he had to do and ridicule all that cart boys like they deserved....now he moved to an inferior sport with a much easier work....so please i want rally pictures of him not F1 ones.

Langdale Forest

17th February 2010, 21:37

Ok then Mr. N.O.T

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01576/loeb-raikkonen_1576060c.jpg

N.O.T

17th February 2010, 21:52

this is a nice picture.... the past and the future of WRC in one shot.

Boudica

17th February 2010, 22:00

can we have more pictures of kimmi in this thread ? too much text and no photo...a photo is worth a thousand words and in case of kimmi at least 12.347 per photo.

I am glad you asked NOT, I am sure all of the female members will be very happy with that request. :D

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs125.snc3/17252_491426570121_755585121_11275089_2053864_n.jp g

http://s10.images.www.tvn.hu/2010/02/14/17/09/www.tvn.hu_c472d1301dadfe09391d9126bed028e4.jpg

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/1410/sweden18.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/3521/sweden41.jpg

Boudica

17th February 2010, 22:01

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/9260/sweden21.jpg

http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/4461/sweden401.jpg

Or perhaps you had something more like this in mind:

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2540/tagheuer2008mag31.jpg

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/7982/kimitag.jpg

tmx

17th February 2010, 22:04

What's this thread supposed to be about again?

pettersolberg29

17th February 2010, 22:04

When did this forum become so.....so....

...off-topic and slightly worryingly camp?

Boudica

17th February 2010, 23:28

Kimi's video for rally Sweden:

http://www.kimiraikkonen.com/videos/3.asp

kchung

17th February 2010, 23:33

Kimi digging himself out of the snow bank at Viggen (SS 6)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4365676977_f0fd8f70e0_b.jpg

N.O.T

18th February 2010, 00:08

When did this forum become so.....so....

...off-topic and slightly worryingly camp?

forum off-topic ??

this thread is about kimmi and i can see kimmi pics...so no off-topic. i prefer to have all kimmi things here than posting kimmi things on other threads....so us hardcore fans of kimmi can feast ourselves only here.

Some of the pictures are not rally orientated though, and i don't like that. only rally stuff here please, and action pictures not unlucky moments pictures, it makes me sad and cannot sleep during the day.

N.O.T

18th February 2010, 00:10

What's this thread supposed to be about again?

this is a thread about kimmis rally career and life style...you see anything out of line in some posts ???

Josti

18th February 2010, 01:17

Most of the times I get your sarcasm N.O.T., and actually find some truth behind it, but this is getting so lame.

Thanks for bringing down the level of this forum (I hope you get the sarcasm).

Langdale Forest

18th February 2010, 07:24

Let's get back on topic! ;)

What can we expect from 'Kimmi kid' in Mexico? :D

Viking

18th February 2010, 08:03

Kimi digging himself out of the snow bank at Viggen (SS 6)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4365676977_f0fd8f70e0_b.jpg

Love this, he took the time to take his helmet off and put a beanie hat on, and Kaj is probably sent out to find some wood for a camp fire :)

N.O.T

18th February 2010, 08:32

Let's get back on topic! ;)

What can we expect from 'Kimmi kid' in Mexico? :D

Entry lists are quite weak there so i expect a top 10 position if he stays on the road...maybe even a top 5.

Langdale Forest

18th February 2010, 08:42

+1

He will be improving all the time so I hope he does well.

Daniel

18th February 2010, 08:45

Love this, he took the time to take his helmet off and put a beanie hat on, and Kaj is probably sent out to find some wood for a camp fire :)
No, Kaj has gone to find some Finns to get some Makkara to cook on the engine.

Tomi

18th February 2010, 08:59

Let's get back on topic! ;)

What can we expect from 'Kimmi kid' in Mexico? :D

I think Mexico will be for him a little easier but not much, he still has driven too few rallies, rally is not so easy, top 7 would be good result.

Tomi

18th February 2010, 09:00

No, Kaj has gone to find some Finns to get some Makkara to cook on the engine.

Lol, it might take some time to find :)

Daniel

18th February 2010, 09:03

Lol, it might take some time to find :)
Why? Finns not able to cook makarra in Sweden because they have to keep their hands covering their bum to protect from Swedes? :p

Tomi

18th February 2010, 09:11

Why? Finns not able to cook makarra in Sweden because they have to keep their hands covering their bum to protect from Swedes? :p

Thats not so big problem any more, the rally package in Sweden includes steel undies nowdays. :D

Boudica

18th February 2010, 20:12

I think Mexico will be for him a little easier but not much, he still has driven too few rallies, rally is not so easy, top 7 would be good result.

Just out of curiosity, why is Mexico considered to be such a difficult event?

Langdale Forest

18th February 2010, 20:13

The high altitudes affect the power of the cars and this can be a distraction for the drivers.

Boudica

18th February 2010, 20:19

Heikki Kovalainen said he was avidly following compatriot Raikkonen's World Rally Championship fortunes, and believes the 2007 F1 champion will soon be competitive despite his incidents in the Arctic and Swedish rallies.

"I think he will be good there," said Kovalainen. "I think the rallies that he's done so far have been really difficult rallies against really good drivers on both surfaces, and I think given a little bit of time, already this season he could be quite competitive and get some good results.

"He's got a good team, a good car and a good co-driver, so once it all starts working, I think it will be good."

Tomi

18th February 2010, 20:25

Just out of curiosity, why is Mexico considered to be such a difficult event?

Because he is still new to rally, but I think it will be easier for him there, than in Sweden because the conditions are more stabile. This years Sweden was very tricky, and difficult because of the lack of ice on the roads.
But the good thing is that he drives a Citroen, it should work better than the Ford in high altitudes.

Langdale Forest

18th February 2010, 20:26

I think he will struggle a bit because he has not done a rally outside europe and there is the high altitude to take into consideration. Still if he finsihes in the top 10, which should be easy on a rally with little WRC opposition providing he keeps it on the road.

Boudica

18th February 2010, 21:05

Tomi

18th February 2010, 21:15

Okay thanks for the info guys. :)

There will not be lots of competition, so this is a good oppertunity for good results...if he can keep it on the road, that is. I actually thought he was a bit unlucky to get stuck in the snowbank for 26 minutes, when he basically just drove into it at a slow speed. Most of the others were not stuck for such a long time, but of course he shouldn't have driven in there in the first place. I suppose drivers properly learn how to hit such things as snowbanks in way that they don't lose as much time.

He got stuck for that long because there was no spectators to help him back i think, here if someone goes off, in summer its about 1-2 minutes and the car is back, in winter a few minutes more, now also the snowbanks was very soft and thats not so good.

Mixxu

19th February 2010, 17:55

Kimi in Lapland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjJPtD3cLd4

Langdale Forest

19th February 2010, 19:38

ycbrHlGNkCY

DonJippo

19th February 2010, 21:42

He got stuck for that long because there was no spectators to help him back i think.

Have to give him credit though digging himself out from there, could have been easy to call a heli to pick them up but looks like Kimi has right attidude and did it the hard way :p

Tomi

19th February 2010, 22:05

Have to give him credit though digging himself out from there, could have been easy to call a heli to pick them up but looks like Kimi has right attidude and did it the hard way :p

Agree, nothing wrong with his attitude, only a bit childish shovel, lol. When he start to trust and to make precise notes and dont hesitate to go in the corners, the times start to come much better.

N.O.T

19th February 2010, 22:07

yes ... its nice to see that the hopes of the finish people lie in kimmi kid...desparation is a bad feeling. especially after all these years of eternal second places....

Tomi

19th February 2010, 22:12

yes ... its nice to see that the hopes of the finish people lie in kimmi kid...desparation is a bad feeling. especially after all these years of eternal second places....

If you feel desperate, try to think positive it might help.

N.O.T

19th February 2010, 23:54

i see its worse than i thought... being second its ok....you are still a loser but could be worse

Boudica

20th February 2010, 04:50

Autosport Magazine article:

http://grandprixgirlsf1-en.blogspot.com/2010/02/finns-can-only-get-better.html

Boudica

20th February 2010, 05:33

Onboard for SS15
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycbrHlGNkCY

Woodeye

20th February 2010, 08:44

i see its worse than i thought... being second its ok....you are still a loser but could be worse

says a "man" from a country that has been in bankcrupcy for the whole of it's history. Now who's a loser? You're not even close being the second, you are the last. :) And still I don't see any plans how to get our from that place.

cali

20th February 2010, 10:32

says a "man" from a country that has been in bankcrupcy for the whole of it's history. Now who's a loser? You're not even close being the second, you are the last. :) And still I don't see any plans how to get our from that place.

And problably this country could drag other EU members with them as well. NOT a good situation there.

Seems like NOT's world contains only winners and losers - NOT a healthy way to approach things. NOT a beatiful mind :p

Woodeye

20th February 2010, 10:51

NOT a beatiful mind :p

:D

A.F.F.

20th February 2010, 14:37

yes ... its nice to see that the hopes of the finish people lie in kimmi kid...desparation is a bad feeling. especially after all these years of eternal second places....

Like Mikko in Sweden ?? :D

You're gonna have to try harder Mr.Mousefart ....

MotorSportAutographs.com

20th February 2010, 16:12

i think Kimi started well, he finished the rally in the snow thats a good start. It was good to watch him pushing the car and it showed you how good the rest of the pack is. :crazy:

tolis

20th February 2010, 17:18

Poor Kimi... :p
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8921569@N07/4366415014/sizes/l/in/set-72157623331407479/

N.O.T

20th February 2010, 18:02

says a "man" from a country that has been in bankcrupcy for the whole of it's history. Now who's a loser? You're not even close being the second, you are the last. :) And still I don't see any plans how to get our from that place.

the thing is we have been a third world country on every aspect and we don;t care if we remain that way....we are the poorest SH*Thole in europe and the only thing we are good at is the import of drunk tourists and of course reproducing YES men.

Now you having tasted victories and championships its now hard to be losers once more....for 6 years now your parade of second places and endless ridiculing within your borders of drivers of other countries in your national sport brought some desparation and you hope that one of the sick dogs you parade these days will manage and win something thus you see heros in every driver from finalnd. and you also get a bit agitated....which raises blood presure and causes heart disease so be careful.

I never used propaganda in my words only the truth....yet you once this kimmmi kid entrers you started saying that Wilson was good Rautenbach is legend and your usual propaganda stuff fed to you by the managers of finland who for six years now FAIL at what they do.

Its just a sport don;t take it seriously.....

N.O.T

20th February 2010, 18:03

Like Mikko in Sweden ?? :D

You're gonna have to try harder Mr.Mousefart ....

that was a good solid win.....lets see if the trend continues.

Langdale Forest

20th February 2010, 18:39

and you also get a bit agitated....which raises blood presure and causes heart disease so be careful.

I never used propaganda in my words only the truth....yet you once this kimmmi kid entrers you started saying that Wilson was good Rautenbach is legend and your usual propaganda stuff fed to you by the managers of finland who for six years now FAIL at what they do.

:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Anyone that says that nonsense knows anything about the WRC.

Langdale Forest

20th February 2010, 18:45

that was a good solid win.....lets see if the trend continues.

That trend probably won't continue and Petter Solberg will start a new winning trend. :rolleyes: :uhoh:

Woodeye

21st February 2010, 10:49

I never used propaganda in my words only the truth....

aha, now I see the point. do you really think that what you say is the truth? you are sharing your opinions here, not the truth. that's not the same thing.

Ondra WRC

21st February 2010, 16:00

http://rajdy.autoklub.pl/news/kimi-kontuzjowany,28377

Some details about Kimi's injury? :confused:

ste898

21st February 2010, 16:01

I am so sick of hearing about this guy already and even more sick of all the tv time wasted on him!!!

Langdale Forest

21st February 2010, 17:41

http://rajdy.autoklub.pl/news/kimi-kontuzjowany,28377

Some details about Kimi's injury? :confused:

Sounds like a back injury, but very basic information.
Tranlated it from Polish to English using Google translator.

Miika

22nd February 2010, 13:05

Kimi almost ramming into a Swedish moose ..with his car, luckily.

<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GL9v2fhZFJs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GL9v2fhZFJs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>

SubaruNorway

22nd February 2010, 15:59

Miika

22nd February 2010, 17:26

Haha, what did they say?

Kimi: Oh f#ck!
Kaj: Keep going.
Kimi mumbling and then saying: Couldn't tell in which direction it (the moose) would go from there.
Kaj: Yeah.

Something like that.

Langdale Forest

22nd February 2010, 18:48

http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=755412#post755412

http://www.planetf1.com/story/0,1895...970277,00.html (http://www.planetf1.com/story/0,18954,3213_5970277,00.html)
http://www.planetf1.com/story/0,1895...970277,00.html

What a shame!;( (http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=755412#post755412)

N.O.T

22nd February 2010, 19:12

lets hope he stays healthy until his f1 return.

Langdale Forest

22nd February 2010, 19:13

MJW

22nd February 2010, 19:56

Boudica

22nd February 2010, 22:33

Sounds like a back injury, but very basic information.
Tranlated it from Polish to English using Google translator.

Kimi injured his back, during his second test at Sauber just before his F1 career started. Sometimes the old injury acts up from time to time. There were some reports of back pain during the Swedish rally. But Mark Arnell said this was only due to the different schedules in rallying, because he now had to sit in the car for long hours. While a F1 cockpit is actually more uncomfortable then a rallying seat, he was used to it, so he might just need some time to adapt.

But because of the back pain issue he wasn't able to test for rally Mexico.

Boudica

22nd February 2010, 23:08

Too early to say about 2010, but I have a feeling that Kimi will probably return to F1. Lets enjoy his obvious big name status here in the WRC, it probably is the best year for Kimi to be in WRC, based on his wanting to try rallying, its the last year of the cars in their format, and he couldnt make a deal with McLaren that allowed him to do a few rallies in between the F1 races. (Which is what I understand he wanted, and big money deal). I may be wrong, and that Kimi is actually very good at rallying, and he will stay.......

There is properly going to be many rumours like this throughout the year, Blid isn't exactly the most relaible source in the world. Although they do get it right from time to time, I suspect this is more due to luck then anything else.

Webber only has a contract for this year, but I cant see why he should just retire. He did lose to Vettel last year, but he aquited himself reasonable well. While he was still struggling with some of his injuries during the first half of the season. Of course the fact that Kimi is fully sponsored by red bull now, could well mean that the return of Kimi with red bull, could have been the intention all along. It is also well known that Helmut Marco doesn't really like Webber. And both Helmut Marco and Christian Horner haven't extacly denied that Kimi might be there next year. And Kimi has already worked well with Adrian Newey so it could be an interesting collaboration. But for the moment it remains to be seen.

The Mclaren deal was always a bit complicated, even if they allowed Kimi to compete in rallies, what car would he have used. But there are many rumours that the real reason the deal never got off the ground was because of the terms of the contract with regards to equity. And with the fact that Mark Slade recently left Mclaren because, "his side of the garage doesn't stand a reasonable chance these days", could well indicate that there might be some truth to the rumour. I guess we will never really know.

But it interesting most rally fans seem to think Kimi will return to F1, while F1 fans thinks that Kimi will never return to F1. With Kimi you never really know.

Rallyper

23rd February 2010, 01:49

There is properly going to be many rumours like this throughout the year, Blid isn't exactly the most relaible source in the world. Although they do get it right from time to time, I suspect this is more due to luck then anything else.

Webber only has a contract for this year, but I cant see why he should just retire. He did lose to Vettel last year, but he aquited himself reasonable well. While he was still struggling with some of his injuries during the first half of the season. Of course the fact that Kimi is fully sponsored by red bull now, could well mean that the return of Kimi with red bull, could have been the intention all along. It is also well known that Helmut Marco doesn't really like Webber. And both Helmut Marco and Christian Horner haven't extacly denied that Kimi might be there next year. And Kimi has already worked well with Adrian Newey so it could be an interesting collaboration. But for the moment it remains to be seen.

The Mclaren deal was always a bit complicated, even if they allowed Kimi to compete in rallies, what car would he have used. But there are many rumours that the real reason the deal never got off the ground was because of the terms of the contract with regards to equity. And with the fact that Mark Slade recently left Mclaren because, "his side of the garage doesn't stand a reasonable chance these days", could well indicate that there might be some truth to the rumour. I guess we will never really know.

But it interesting most rally fans seem to think Kimi will return to F1, while F1 fans thinks that Kimi will never return to F1. With Kimi you never really know.

I think it´s all about rumours right now with Kimi. He wouldnt have done this WRC without a longterm intention to be a champion in WRC. And 2010 is just a starter for Kimi.
Next year he has one year of experience and every driver is at square one regarding the WRC-cars. If 2011 isn´t Kimi´s year. 2012 will be. ;)
And back to F1 maybe at earliest in 2013 if ever....

Barreis

23rd February 2010, 09:55

If he's clever he'll run away from WRC..

Boudica

24th February 2010, 16:27

Räikkönen to Mexico, via Paris
According to AutoMoto365.com's sources, Kimi Räikkönen has just left Paris after spending several days with studious engineers from Citroën Racing. The objective of this exchange was primarily to analyze the performance produced by the Finn in the Swedish Rally, his 1st event in the Citroën Junior Team.

"The Swedish Rally was my 1st rally in a WRC. We finished in one piece: it was our objective and the most positive thing we got from the weekend. Of course, I made some stupid mistakes which we could have done without. We have paid dearly and they have severely damaged our results," said the driver after the Swedish race, eager to review his race to record personal progress as he considers it essential to his progress.

With the help of engineers from Citroën, Raikkonen has reviewed some of these damaging errors he made in Sweden and how they affected his C4 car. The ultimate goal of this work program is to guide the driver so that he begins to make progress at its 2nd rally, namely the Rally of Mexico which will be raced next week. This time addressing another surface - gravel - where Kimi has a little bit of experience thanks to his participation in Rally Finland last year.

His stay in France would have included a day of testing to finalize the preparations for the Mexican round. "Each kilometre that I travel with this car is very important. Plus, the more I improve my feeling with the car, the better it will be," Räikkönen claims. However, the driver finally came to an impasse on this test: he was suffering from pains in his back that were sufficiently disturbing to prevent him to take part on this session, but without endangering his participation in the upcoming rally.

Tomorrow, the Finn flies to Leon, where he will find 15 special stages plotted in dusty mountains of Central America, and some 7 Super Specials which will not displease him. Farewell nails, it's time for sombreros!

http://rallye.automoto365.com/news/?lang=fr&month=2&season_year=2010&mode=NewsDetails&id=1711

Sonic

24th February 2010, 20:03

LOL 2 pino for dumping us f1 boyz into here after 6 pages of Kimi in rbr??

Boudica

25th February 2010, 20:03

Motorsport Magazin.com - After his first WRC appearance in Sweden wanted to prepare Kimi Raikkonen with a test on the Rally Mexico. This, however, had to be postponed because the Finn had incurred a back injury in Sweden.

"There are no concerns," said his manager Steve Robertson told Autosport. "It is an old injury which he contracted in his F1 career." By switching from Formula 1 into the rally scene, he now had to strain other muscles, which might arise from such situations. Kimi could have gone, but it made more sense to treat his back a rest. " The test is now scheduled for Friday in southern France.

Link:
http://www.motorsport-magazin.com/rallye/news-93525-raeikkoenen-test-verschoben-alte-rueckenverletzu ng.html (http://www.motorsport-magazin.com/rallye/news-93525-raeikkoenen-test-verschoben-alte-rueckenverletzung.html)

N.O.T

25th February 2010, 20:08

does kimmi have a dedicated kimmi kid shop ?

From now on i would like to walk the streets only dressed in kimmi clothes...i think such a legend deserves a dedicated hardcore fan like myself to boost his image in the streets...

A.F.F.

25th February 2010, 20:37

Do you have a shop dedicated to you Mr.Mousefart?

I would be proud to wear you on the streets. I wouldn't have to tell them what a loser I am. They could spot it miles away.

N.O.T

25th February 2010, 20:58

i don't have one sorry...

Langdale Forest

25th February 2010, 21:31

A.F.F.

25th February 2010, 21:47

i don't have one sorry...

Bummer :(

N.O.T

25th February 2010, 22:23

http://rlv.zcache.com/finland_kimi_raikkonen_tshirt-p235353659248305781q6v8_400.jpg

it looks photoshoped...i would like clothes with his face on them better...here not many know who he is.

JFL

25th February 2010, 22:52

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs073.snc3/14128_353524375497_665445497_5227514_3320037_n.jpg
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs073.snc3/14128_353524380497_665445497_5227515_1702864_n.jpg
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs073.snc3/14128_353524400497_665445497_5227516_3864371_n.jpg
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs073.snc3/14128_353524405497_665445497_5227517_1318890_n.jpg
New collection is out..

N.O.T

25th February 2010, 23:06

nice job....we will sell for 15 euros each you get 2 euros from each shirt...the rest 13 euros are enough where i live to spend 3 years.

Make a ladies collection...the ladies love me.

Koz

25th February 2010, 23:30

N.O.T

25th February 2010, 23:45

i am rich !!!!! YAhoooooooo !!!

6789

26th February 2010, 00:37

lol.. i want one

Langdale Forest

26th February 2010, 08:03

:rotflmao:

MartijnS

26th February 2010, 08:33

lol nice :D

A.F.F.

26th February 2010, 08:49

I'm gonna have to demand a share from the profit. Mr.Mousefart is unfortunately under a trademark.

pino

26th February 2010, 09:05

You guys are incredibly funny :up:

N.O.T

26th February 2010, 09:22

get off my merchandise you vultures....i am the big kid here....

dimviii

26th February 2010, 10:52

Langdale Forest

26th February 2010, 17:46

get off my merchandise you vultures....i am the big kid here....

How about you make a T-shirt that says 'get off my mercandise you vultures or this will happen to you!' that and with this picture on it? :p

http://blog.nj.com/ledgerupdates_impact/2009/03/large_Turkey-vulture.JPG

Boudica

26th February 2010, 20:55

Kimi, you've caused quite a stir in the rally world. Do you like the rallies better than Formula 1?

I think the repercussion is the same, I race in the rallies because I like it. I don't like it more than F1, I still like F1, but rallying is something I have always wanted to try.

How did you do in Sweden?

The snow is the hardest surface to drive on, because you can't see the driving lines, which could help you. There's still a lot to learn, but I'm getting experience with the car and with the notes, and little by little I'll begin to go faster.

Where is there more pression, here on in Formula 1?

The pression is the same for me, because it's the pressure I impose on myself.

http://motor.terra.es/ultimas-noticias-actualidad/deportes/articulo/entrevista-kimi-raikkonen-53858.htm

Boudica

26th February 2010, 20:57

Looking back on it now, what conclusions can you draw from your first event in the World Rally Championship with the Citroën Junior Team C4 WRC?

“The really positive thing is that we managed to cover all the stages on the Rally Sweden and we learned a lot. We could have done better overall had it not been for some small mistakes but we managed to improve our stage times as the rally went on. That was our initial objective. The second run through the stages was better for us. I also felt a big difference once I became more confident with my pace notes. With more experience, things should get increasingly easier.”

Mexico will be the first time that you drive the Citroën C4 WRC on gravel. Do you think that you will find this surface easier than snow?

“I’m really looking forward to starting the Rally Mexico. My impression is that driving on gravel should be a little bit easier for us. Or at least that’s what Marcus Grönholm told me! I reckon that we will find a more consistent level of grip on gravel. But for the moment I’m still lacking experience. I just need to get more kilometres in the car in order to get used to the Citroën C4 WRC in particular and rallying in general.”

How are you going to approach the Rally Mexico?

“My plan had initially been to take part in a test session on gravel, in order to get to know the Citroën C4 WRC a bit better on a new surface for me. But unfortunately I experienced a bit of back pain that stopped me from driving. I’ve had some treatment now but I preferred to rest before leaving for Mexico. Of course I would have liked to test the car before going, but it was important to recuperate in order to start the second rally of the season in the best possible physical shape.”

Allyc85

26th February 2010, 21:20

i am rich !!!!! YAhoooooooo !!!

But will the money cheer you up? :p :p

N.O.T

27th February 2010, 14:11

is any good biography about kimmis rally career out ?

WRCfan

27th February 2010, 14:28

The official release and signing are tomorrow. ;)

Tomi

27th February 2010, 14:44

is any good biography about kimmis rally career out ?

Here drivers dont write biographys until they have acchived something (world championship) in the sport, there might be something about his F1 carreer if you are interested.
And if you are interested in good rally biographys, read Marcus Grönholms book, its one of the best.

MJW

27th February 2010, 15:01

And if you are interested in good rally biographys, read Marcus Grönholms book, its one of the best.
Is this available in English?

Tomi

27th February 2010, 15:23

Is this available in English?

Im not sure, but if it is, you better get it, it is not an ordinary "bragging story", but gives an insight to TTE, and the best part is maybe the development of the 206, very good book really.

MJW

27th February 2010, 17:23

Im not sure, but if it is, you better get it, it is not an ordinary "bragging story", but gives an insight to TTE, and the best part is maybe the development of the 206, very good book really.
I would love to get that book, just need to find out if its available now. (In English)

Tomi

27th February 2010, 18:17

I would love to get that book, just need to find out if its available now. (In English)

I did send mail to him and asked if its available in English, I let you know after he reply, if it is, I get you 1 signed copy.

Boudica

28th February 2010, 09:43

is any good biography about kimmis rally career out ?

There is a book about Kimi's world championship, you can always read that while waiting for the rally one. Although Kimi isn't really the kind who is ever going to endorse multiple biographies about himself, so it might be a long wait. :D

N.O.T

28th February 2010, 12:22

i am interested in kimmi kid the rally driver and future wrchampion of the universe not his f1 days.

Does the book have many pictures of him in various outfits ?

Langdale Forest

28th February 2010, 14:13

Does the book have many pictures of him in various outfits ?

Including the oversized hat? ;)

JRodrigues

28th February 2010, 20:09

i am interested in kimmi kid the rally driver and future wrchampion of the universe not his f1 days.

Does the book have many pictures of him in various outfits ?

Do you want to see pictures of guys?! http://forums.ratedesi.com/images/smilies/greddysmiley.gif

N.O.T

28th February 2010, 20:13

only kimmis

Langdale Forest

28th February 2010, 20:36

;) http://www.zerotohundred.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/kimi-raikkonen.jpg

Boudica

28th February 2010, 21:05

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czS7skGjAFo

N.O.T

1st March 2010, 09:27

did they use a any special equipment for all that slow motion videos from the stages ? they were amazing....his lap dog is also very loyal to him....good

Boudica

1st March 2010, 22:29

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/5139/14msyg41741047.jpg

http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/4908/2a8qmth.jpg

Boudica

1st March 2010, 22:41

Kimi:
"Gravel is the surface that everybody associates with rallying, and of course it is a complete contrast to anything that I experienced in Formula 1," said the Red Bull driver. "If you are sliding a Formula 1 car, something is going wrong, but in rallying this is something that you do every day. We learned a lot in Sweden and this will certainly help us in Mexico, but effectively we are starting all over again from the beginning now. My approach is going to be exactly the same though: we want to build up our speed at a comfortable pace and above all get to the finish. We managed to get quicker and quicker the last time we were out and this will be the aim for us again in Mexico."

Kaj:
"Actually, I retired from the rally on both of those previous occasions so I've got a point to prove as well!" he said. "But I have a good idea of what we can expect from the Mexican stages. I was really impressed by how much Kimi managed to learn in Sweden, and if we can have the same sort of pace on gravel then I will be very happy. I know how much Kimi is looking forward to this rally and I'm sure he's going to enjoy every kilometre of it: particularly as the road sections are very short so the action is more or less non-stop!"

gloomyDAY

2nd March 2010, 04:53

Boudica

2nd March 2010, 09:05

Kimi to F1?

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81788

Mateschitz says it's all speculation. I'm rather intrigued by his last statement. They really want to see Mark be competitive or else the seat will go to someone else.

Yes well, according to James Allen it was actually a thinly veiled threat to Webber. It is also interesting that they keep on mentioning," we don't know what Kimi intends to do next year". Why should that be of any concern to them when they are discussing the 2011 drivers line-up? As for Webber he didn't actually perform that badly last year, so I don't think this is only a question of performance. There has always been rumours that Marco and Mateschitz wouldn't mind seeing someone else in that seat, and they have always liked Kimi, Horner and Newey included. But they might even be thinking of promoting Buemi, for all we know.

But who knows, the 2010 season hasn't even started yet, a lot of things can happen in a year, especially in F1, so it is properly a bit early to speculate. Although I wouldn't be surprised if the press speculates about this the whole year long. In the meantime Kimi seems to be enjoying himself in rallying. I wonder if Kimi will be going to Bahrain for the 60th anniversary event that they are staging. I know for a fact that he will be going to the Monaco gp, so it will be interesting to see if he will go to Bahrain, properly not.

Langdale Forest

2nd March 2010, 18:30

Kimi kid should stay in the WRC.

snellman

2nd March 2010, 21:46

did they use a any special equipment for all that slow motion videos from the stages ? they were amazing....his lap dog is also very loyal to him....good
dude, same joke twice?

N.O.T

2nd March 2010, 22:40

of course why not ??

Iskald

3rd March 2010, 12:12

Kimi kid should stay in the WRC.

Did you and N.O.T get married?

bluuford

3rd March 2010, 13:16

Did you and N.O.T get married?

NOooo.. women take too much time.. look at me :-P

Langdale Forest

3rd March 2010, 17:29

Did you and N.O.T get married?

No... :uhoh:

Boudica

4th March 2010, 10:01

"It's actually really nice to go somewhere new and see something different," said Kimi, who has now completed the recce of the 22 stages that make up the Rally Mexico. "The event's not exactly what I was expecting. The stages are quite demanding and twisty, but there are also some more flowing bits that are a little similar to Rally Finland. The good news is that there seems to be a bit more consistency in the surface than there was in Sweden. Even in the recce car, you feel that the amount of grip doesn't vary too much. What it will be like when we come to doing the stages at full speed in the rally car, I don't really know: but there are a lot of things that I don't know about rallying yet!"

Having been forced to sit out the Citroen Junior Team's pre-event test after aggravating an old back injury picked up in F1, Kimi feels confident that it will not trouble him further during the rally.

"My back feels OK now," he said. "I'm going to wear a kidney belt during the rally just to keep everything in place but I am sure I won't have any further problems. If I was going to experience some pain I would have had it during the recce, but it was fine. I'm actually not too worried about having missed the test: the team has some very good data for this rally anyway."

One of the biggest improvements that Kimi has made since Sweden is in his pace notes, read out by co-driver Kaj Lindstrom. "The level of detail in them is really good now," added Kaj. "Our recce was really good and I could tell that Kimi had a great feeling with the stages. I hope that all the stages are going to go well for us, but there are a quite a few that we thought might be really good such as SS3 and SS12. The roads clean up quite a lot, so I think that our start position will help us too."

After learning a lot in Sweden, the 2007 Formula 1 World Champion is planning on taking the same approach in Mexico. "Most of the speed to come is from me learning more about the car, so that is going to be the main focus here," he concluded. "We're going to just build on everything we've learned so far at our own pace, and hopefully a few good stage times will come out of it too. At the shakedown tomorrow we plan to do as many runs as we can to get a feel for the roads. So far I'm really enjoying Mexico, although even on the recce I was quite surprised by how much power you lose with the altitude. We've had a really great welcome from everyone here and I like Mexican food, so I know we're going to have a good time. After all, Mexico is famous for that!"

Boudica

5th March 2010, 04:26

Kimi shakedown:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZmxNS7l-NI...player_embedded (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZmxNS7l-NI&feature=player_embedded)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bECGgmsHlFE

Boudica

5th March 2010, 11:48

Räikkönen had to skip the gravel tests for Mexico because of his backaches.

- It's old injuries from F1. I have two distensed discs. The other one was operated by laser a week ago. It hurts all the time but there's nothing more we could do about it, Räikkönen tells in Citroen's statement.

He surprised everybody on Thursday by being the fastest Finnish guy in the shakedown. The rally starts today. Kimi will start the weekend with a back-support.

- Hopefully we can drive normally and get it fixed later, Räikkönen said.

It seems like the back issue is a little bit more serious then previously stated.

Boudica

5th March 2010, 20:14

Kimi Raikkonen remains in Rally Mexico thanks to his co-driver Kaj Lindstrom's last-ditch effort to discover the problem that halted their Citroen C4 WRC on the second stage this morning.

For the second event in succession, Raikkonen has suffered problems on the opening day. After sliding off the road on SS6 in Sweden, it was the Finn's Citroen which let him down on the Ortega test this morning. Just over two miles into the stage, the C4 WRC's engine died. Raikkonen and Lindstrom radioed the team for assistance and eventually traced the problem to a loose connection to the fuel pumps.

"We had tried everything, but we couldn't find it," Lindstrom said. "Then I slid my hand down the side of the bag [fuel tank], felt the wire and realised that was wrong. We got it sorted and carried on after that."

The Red Bull-backed pair's problems were not over, however. Running late, there was no time for them to change the tyres ahead of the morning's final gravel stage.

"It's been a tough morning," continued Lindstrom. "We bent something on the steering on the first stage, then we had stage two and we had to do the third stage on the same tyres, so we haven't really had a clean run. But, taking all that into account, Kimi has driven really well."

Boudica

5th March 2010, 22:53

Citroen Junior Team driver Kimi Raikkonen rolled his Citroen C4 World Rally Car out of Friday's competition almost within sight of the end of SS7 - the repeated El Cubilete stage.

The accident happened 17.5km into the 18.87km stage, on a downhill section littered with hairpin corners.

Eyewitnesses report seeing the car roll off the road at high speed, before coming to rest at the bottom of a bank. Both Raikkonen and co-driver Kaj Lindstrom are out of the car and are reported to be okay.

The incident brought an end to an up and down day for the Finn. After losing more than half an hour with an electrical problem on SS2, he set a string of top 10 stage times, including seventh fastest on SS3 and fifth fastest on the asphalt sprint stage, SS4.

A decision regarding Kimi's return as a Super Rally entrant on Saturday will be made later tonight when the car is recovered to the Service Park.

Boudica

6th March 2010, 02:23

http://www.revistapuromotor.com/galeria/albums/2010/rallywrcmexico2010/accidentekimi/Kimi3.jpg

http://www.revistapuromotor.com/galeria/albums/2010/rallywrcmexico2010/accidentekimi/Kimi1.jpg

http://www.revistapuromotor.com/galeria/albums/2010/rallywrcmexico2010/accidentekimi/Kimi2.jpg

http://www.revistapuromotor.com/galeria/albums/2010/rallywrcmexico2010/accidentekimi/Kimi4.jpg

Boudica

6th March 2010, 04:25

Citroen Junior team driver Kimi Raikkonen will not restart Rally Mexico on Saturday after an inspection revealed his car was too badly damaged in a multiple roll on SS7.

After losing more than half an hour with an electrical problem on today's second stage, Raikkonen went on to set an eighth, a seventh, and a fifth fastest time: his highest-ever overall stage result in his short World Championship career.

But it all went wrong on the final proper stage of the day, SS7, when the Finn rolled into retirement virtually within sight of the finish line. With his Citroen C4 too badly damaged to continue, Kimi’s Rally Mexico is over.

The 2007 Formula 1 World Champion said: “It was very unlucky: the car just slid wide at the end of the stage in a slippery braking area, so we clipped the side of the road and rolled a few times. I had hoped for some good things from this rally, but this was only my seventh event and I am still learning. It’s normal that when you are learning anything you can get caught out by something and this is what happened to me today.

"My biggest disappointment is that we’re not able to continue, as I wanted to have as much time in the car as I could. I had a really good feeling earlier and I wanted to push to see what we could do. I’m sure we will come back stronger at our next event though, and while today was disappointing, I’m really enjoying my rally adventure.”

Kaj Lindstrom, who has been Kimi’s co-driver since the Finn started rallying last year said: “It was a shame that we ended our rally how we did as Kimi was making excellent progress, both with the driving and the pace notes. When we went off we were in a braking area for a left and then a right hand corner with lots of dust and gravel. Kimi had been driving perfectly to the notes and it’s the sort of thing that could happen to anyone. Up until then things had been going really well, and I’m confident that we’ll be on track again at our next event. It’s all part of the game.”

N.O.T

6th March 2010, 09:07

...

Boudica

6th March 2010, 12:48

SS1 Onboard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpoIEJMsvBY

SS2 Onboard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4SYM_PM6Lc

Boudica

6th March 2010, 12:49

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/9752/25353370824388627583368.jpg

Boudica

6th March 2010, 12:50

...

...... .. .... .... ....., ... ..... ....?

N.O.T

6th March 2010, 17:59

i was trying to put the dots above the letters to have his name right but failed miserably.....

any external views or the roll ?

Boudica

6th March 2010, 18:20

i was trying to put the dots above the letters to have his name right but failed miserably.....

any external views or the roll ?

:D

Unfortunately not.

A.F.F.

6th March 2010, 18:37

Figures..... Kimi avoids media even when rolling the car :mark:

Langdale Forest

6th March 2010, 21:07

Oh dear...

Buzz Lightyear

6th March 2010, 21:35

Looking at the vidoes, its was an accident waiting to happen. He is braking while turning, he needs to get his braking done on a straight line.

JFL

6th March 2010, 22:38

Figures..... Kimi avoids media even when rolling the car :mark:

I think I saw some clip of him giving a interview after the roll..

Boudica

7th March 2010, 12:16

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/7596/97469002.jpg

http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/1559/97468999.jpg

Boudica

9th March 2010, 21:34

The first two rounds of the World Rally Championship proved to be a real challenge indeed for rookie driver Kimi Raikkonen, the former Formula 1 World Champion.

The Finn made a risqué move by leaving Formula 1 to try his luck in the WRC with Citroen Junior Team with the Red Bull sponsorship.

During the Arctic Lapland Rally, he hit a tree and finished well behind the leaders. Then, at Rally Sweden (opening round of the WRC), he bumped into a snow bank and again lost significant time.

The Corona Rally Mexico (Round 2 of the WRC) was even worse. Near the end of the race on Day 1, Raikkonen made a severe exit that turned into a horrifying series of rolls.

Fortunately, both he and his co-driver Kaj Lindström came out uninjured. However, the same could not be said of the car, which was totally destroyed.

But let’s hold off any harsh judgment on Raikkonen, who boldly did what most other drivers wouldn’t dare try — having nothing left to prove in F1 after a glorious career that began with a surprising move from Formula Renault to Formula 1 with McLaren in 2001 and culminated with a world championship at Ferrari in 2007 (his first season with the Scuderia), he decided to completely reinvent himself and take up a whole new challenge.

Don’t forget that other WRC drivers all took the long, "classic" road to where they are now. They learned the rally ropes over many trials and errors at regional, national and international levels. Raikkonen came in with virtually no rally background whatsoever despite his innate sense of speed and direction. He barely got time to test the C4. In fact, the testing session prior to Mexico had to be cancelled because he was complaining of back pains that resulted from his times in F1.

Raikkonen’s early results should definitely not cast a shadow over his first WRC season. All seem to agree that he has progressed a lot since the first round in Sweden and he was doing well in Mexico before that spectacular loss of control forced him to quit.

A year ago, Sébastien Loeb got caught in a similar situation while tackling a tortuous descent and, just like Raikkonen, his Citroen C4 went flying and rolled over.

The kid sure likes to go fast, but he has to find his limit. The crash in Mexico will teach him a lesson and, while he’s not the kind of driver who minds heavy pressure on his shoulders, he has his work cut out for him. His teammate Sébastien Ogier, who finished third in the last race, is considered by many to be the heir to Sébastien Loeb.

Raikkonen needs to make his mark. Let’s just give him a little time.

http://www.auto123.com/en/racing-news/rally/wrc-kimi-raikkonens-steep-learning-curve?artid=116848

Langdale Forest

9th March 2010, 21:52

Is the car reparable?

racepode1

10th March 2010, 05:04

Maybe for marketing purpose and exibitions.

bluuford

10th March 2010, 07:41

Is the car reparable?

Ofcourse, It was not badly damaged. I was surpirsed it was not repaired by Saturday, maybe some roll cage damage.

Langdale Forest

10th March 2010, 07:44

Is that easily repaired?

cali

10th March 2010, 09:06

Is that easily repaired?

Define easily? :p
But yes, this car can be repaired.

jens

10th March 2010, 10:51

The weirdest and maybe the most annoying thing is that Kimi gets actually highly paid for his hobby.

Ucci

10th March 2010, 11:55

GigiGalliNo1

10th March 2010, 16:08

Wish Kimi luck.... but he's boring.... sorry.

Langdale Forest

10th March 2010, 18:34

But yes, this car can be repaired.

Even if the rollcage is damaged?

JRodrigues

10th March 2010, 20:23

Even if the rollcage is damaged?

Latvala Portugal 2009

Boudica

14th March 2010, 08:49

Martin Whitmarsh "I'm a big fan of Kimi "

McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh talks about Kimi Räikkönen, the work within the FOTA and the separation of long-term partner Mercedes

(Motorsport Total.com) - Hardly Mercedes has accomplished 40 percent of McLaren, developed between the two teams a prestige duel: Mercedes tries to be a German national team Silver Arrow with superstar Michael Schumacher, McLaren believes the two British Champions Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton to meet. Nevertheless, the two companies continue to work together. Furthermore, and much more McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh in an interview with 'Motorsport-Total.com speak'.

Question: "Martin, the last time you had no Finnish driver, was it 2007 dispute between Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton ..."
Martin Whitmarsh: "And you think it's because of the peacefulness and the humor of the Finns, it was usually more relaxed (laughs ;) Editor's note?" Seriously, I would like to once again make it clear: we have always tried get the best drivers, regardless of their nationality. The fact that both drivers are British, played no role in the decision. "

How long will the harmony?
"I realize that Jenson and Lewis are still in the honeymoon, but I think they will generally get along well together. Today they were just as fast, which is healthy. Both are balanced personalities. I remember a season with a Colombian and a Finn (2005 and early 2006 with Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Räikkönen, editor's note), but that was not exactly the most peaceful experience! As has with the Finnish peacemaker does not work, but we are for This year optimism. "

Question: "How realistic was a return of Kimi Räikkönen?"
MW: "I honestly admit that I am a big fan of Kimi. It was close, but it did not work. We've tried it, because together with Kimi, we still have a score to settle. He is super fast, exciting. I like his honesty and his way, but he has this penchant for the rally sport and that could have influenced the decision. "
http://www.motorsport-total.com/f1/news/2010/03/Whitmarsh_Bin_ein_grosser_Fan_von_Kimi_10031229.ht ml

Barreis

14th March 2010, 10:52

He's stupid ih he'll stay in WRC..

Boudica

14th March 2010, 20:23

SIESTA IN MEXICO

If I had to describe in short how Mexico went it would be enough if I said that I'm really gutted. Only the beginning was rally and the rest was then siesta.

Maybe the readers feel like we would go through the same thing over and over again but let's say it again. We knew before the season that this wasn't going to be easy. We learn from mistakes. And we have learned - I can guarantee that.

The first rally on gravel wasn't too hot for Kaitsu and me. We had a big roll in the mountain range. The best before that was that we already got some promising times just before that mistake.

I just lost traction when braking. There was some lump beside the dusty road and from that the car flipped around. It was quite a banging when we rolled six times through the roof in a whole body spin to the bottom of the hill.

Mostly I was gutted for not being able to continue on Saturday. The regulations say that you can't continue if there's even the slightest crack in the safety cage.

Now we lost two important driving days. Every rally more with this car wouldn't hurt me at least. At least in Mexico our car felt really good. My team mate even got to the podium with the car.

Never mind. The opening day was tricky enough without the ending. I hit a rock in the beginning and we had to give half an hour of leverage to others once again when there were some probs with the fuel supply and we couldn't find the problem anywhere at first.

But it's like this. It's part of rally's nature. We will go forward with humility. Learn all the time and there will come a race where we don't have to compose anything extra on the road.

The car is now being built for Jordan at the workshop. Now I have some resting in my schedule. After that we will drive one test and go to Jordan.

I'm going as an apprentice there too because these other guys have rallied there before. For me and Kaitsu everything is completely new.

But the passion to learn is just as 10 as it was before the first rally.

In Mexico we went quite nicely forward in notes too. It's coming.

Boudica

17th March 2010, 00:26

http://www.kimiraikkonen.com/videos/4.asp

userwave

17th March 2010, 00:41

Kimi is great for the sport, give him time, I am cheering him on much more then I am cheering on K Block who's main objective in the WRC is probably to sell sneakers/t-shirts.

I think Kimi is passionate about becoming competitive in rally!

Boudica

18th March 2010, 16:57

THE GREAT SILENT ONE
text Teppo Kuittinen
Translation thanks to Nicole:

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/7747/sweden08.jpg (http://img176.imageshack.us/i/sweden08.jpg/)

Rally. The international rallypeople are already used to unusually talkative Finnish rallydrivers. Now they are confused with Kimi Räikkönen - he is just like a common silent Finn. Apu interviewed a bunch of rally experts in Rally Sweden. They weren't surprised by Räikkönen's speed.

The photographers who travel around the world asked each other:

– Is he stupid?

The reactions of foreign rally reporters also told much:

– Ooh la la!

One French reporter manages to get a two sentenced reply. Of course from Kimi Räikkönen.

Räikkönen has spent the biggest part of his career in car races where he is surrounded by tens of photographers and reporters. He hates these kind of situations.

The Finn learned very quickly how to act while the cameras flashed around him on the F1-paddock. He had to come in front of photographers and reporters always when he walked from the paddock to the motorhome which was built inside the truck.

He always strided through this repulsive distance with a fast pace. The photographers had to either give room for him or get walked over by him. Räikkönen kept looking down. When squeezed by the camera lenses and photographers he created his own small space.

In this small bubble Räikkönen was left in peace. He only stepped out of his own world for a moment if some photographer pushed him in accident. After F1 changed into rally they said that Kimi Räikkönen has changed.

– Kimi hasn't changed a bit, Riku Kuvaja said on Rally Sweden's paddock.

Apparently not. Räikkönen strides back and forth Citroen's truck and the rallycar with such a speed that nobody has time to ask him anything. When Räikkönen finishes a stage he doesn't open the door so that the reporters can't ask him anything. He also stayed in the car in the service park. Kaj Lindström had to do all the talking.

A French reporter fishing for a short answer got lucky since Räikkönen had to go and get his coat from the trunk on Saturday evening. During this trip Räikkönen gave all and all less than five comments to a couple of reporters.

The international rallypeople are used to unusually talkative Finns. Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala are modern sportsmen who are always ready to comment on their performances.

Many of them remember the cracks of Marcus Grönholm, Tommi Mäkinen, Juha Kankkunen & co. The first Finnish rally world champion Ari Vatanen talked himself into the Europarliament - as France's representative.

Kimi Räikkönen breaks all possible rallypeople's unwritten rules. This alone has got reporters nervous - even some Finnish reporters.

– What is Kimi's problem with the media? the reporters ask Citroen's people on the paddock in Rally Sweden.

Räikkönen had just given short comment to the master of ceremonies that was heard through the speakers. Because the arranger had requested for it all drivers had to do this.

Rally reporters are used to get their own interview-sessions. In Citroen they did their best to turn it into a positive thing and promised that Räikkönen will talk during the next break.

– Really? Did they say so? I guess they forgot to ask Kimi, Mark Arnall laughs.

And Räikkönen doesn't talk.

But let's step into Räikkönen's racing suit for a moment and think what the man could even say. All the questions are already asked and Räikkönen has answered them all. He is still learning rally. It's a big challenge and he has no expectations over his positions.

Why should he answer the same questions over and over again? Räikkönen doesn't like to give speaches and he doesn't want to start making up answers for every reporter.

When the rally photographers are asking if Räikkönen is stupid they are confused over the man's cold behaviour. But Räikkönen isn't a cold person. If he sees a familiar face on the paddock you can see a shining sunny smile on his face. Räikkönen doesn't only smile to everyone he meets - it's very Finnish behaviour.

Kimi Räikkönen enjoys racing. He drinks booze. Kimi Räikkönen is also Matti Nykänen's friend. Some Finns are ashamed of this CV abroad.

Räikkönen's fans can ask a counter question: Why be ashamed? Räikkönen has risen to the group of most famous and best paid sportsmen because he is one of the most talented drivers in the history of motorsport - and not thanks to his speaking talents.

Räikkönen let's his driving speak for itself.

Among the F1-people Räikkönen is immensly respected. His ability to drive a F1-car has astonished all ex-champions among others.

Räikkönen is a completely unique case. He has a mystical way of controlling a car that is in full speed and which is about to get out of the driver's control all the time.

It is dangerous to lose control when you drive 300 km/h surrounded by beton fences or 200 km/h on a narrow forest road. Killing yourself is really close. There is always the risk of dying in motorsport no matter how good the safety precautions would be.

The following tells a lot about Kimi Räikkönen's difference: In F1 all the drivers want their car to be understeering, in other words a car that pushes a little in corners. In an oversteering car the rear goes into a slide easily which makes the car spin. Räikkönen on the other hand wanted definitely an oversteering F1-car because he has an unique ability to keep a car that is constantly on the verge of spinning on the driving line - and drive really fast because of this.

Citroën's rallyteam has tried to build Räikkönen a car that suits his driving style: if not an oversteering then at least one that is only slightly understeering. This work will be continued during the WRC-serie so that Räikkönen gets exactly the car his driving style requires.

In rally over- and understeering isn't as crucial as it is in F1 where Räikkönen's second year in Ferrari was completely destroyed because of the understeering car.

In rally again it is extremely important to make the right notes - and this is something Räikkönen can't yet do even though he has Kaj Lindström who used to be Tommi Mäkinen's co-driver helping him.

In rally the traction also changes more than it does in F1. Especially in winter rallies the change of traction is fierce. In Rally Sweden the car got out of Räikkönen's control many times. I'm sure many had fun looking at photos where 'millionaire-Kimi' was working hard with a tiny shovel digging up his car from the snow.

But Kimi shoveled. This is part of a rallydriver's work. Like getting to the hotel before midnight and waking up at five in the morning for the next rally day. It was much easier in F1.

But does Räikkönen have what it takes to become a rallydriver? Räikkönen told himself before Rally Sweden that he is really interested in finding out what his pace is compared to the others.

Citroën's people had to rub their eyes when looking at Stage Sågen's split times. That stage was driven twice the same day.

On the first time Räikkönen was half a second after his team mate Sebastian Ogier and a second after the lead. Yet Räikkönen drove into a snowbank 100 meters before the finish.

On the second time Räikkönen had checked his notes and was putting some amazing figures on the screen. He was was a few kilometers before the finish ahead of Ogier.

– It was a different stage from the others. A big, fast and driveable road. A bit like in Jyväskylä. In the end the tyres lost traction, Lindström told.

In spite of that Räikkönen was only one second all and all behind Ogier. He was 18 seconds behind Mikko Hirvonen during a 14 km stage. A little over a second per kilometer. This was a sensation. And Räikkönen was driving his first WRC-rally with a 300-horsepowered WRC-rally missile.

Rally Sweden is on top of that the most difficult place to start from because it's so different from all the other rallies. Being a Finn doesn't help Räikkönen in a snowrally.

– A second per kilometer from the lead is an amazing accomplishment. Normally it would take at least one season for anyone to get into a speed like that, Citroen's publicist Marek Nawarecki stated.

Kimi Räikkönen had spoken - in the way he knew.

To rallypeople a F1-car isn't a car. A rallycar is.

– F1-drivers don't know how to drive a car. You aren't supposed to slide in F1. But Kimi has always been driving other than F1 and he also knows how to drive a car, many people said.

Surprisingly they think that Räikkönen will benefit from driving a snowmobile a lot. Räikkönen has also been in highspeed-safaris and also participated in motorsledge races and done well there. According to experts driving a snowmobile and a rallycar has the same elements.

– They might have something similar only it's 100 times more difficult to drive a rallycar, Räikkönen told Apu.

According to Räikkönen the biggest significance is making the notes.

– I had bad notes on quite many stages. You can't drive as fast as you want if that's the case.

– It is solved if you have good notes, that way you can drive faster. Making them comes only through experience, Räikkönen said.

Boudica

18th March 2010, 17:01

PROFILE: Kimi Räikkönen
By Heikki Kulta
Translation thanks to Dracaena

According to many measurements Kimi Räikkönen is the best known Finn in the world right now.
It is known in pretty much every corner of the world that Kimi is a world champion of the pinnacle of circuit racing, F1. Where Finland lies on the map is not as well known. This year Räikkönen will surely get more fans as he boldly moves from the best F1 team to the best WRC rally car.
The novelty shines from the Finnish driver's appearance in every way, although succeeding in rally will take a lot of time and hard work. ”Rally is a completely different world compared to what I've been used to in F1. In the F1 paddock everything is a bit stiff and conservative. In rally people are more relaxed”, says the jovial Räikkönen.
Räikkönen's surprising move from F1 to rally was covered as similar mega news as the return of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher to F1 Grand Prixs after three years.
Räikkönen is a celebrity with a capital C but still shies away from publicity. ”Publicity is just a part of this job. But it's a big relief that in rally I can be a bit more relaxed even about that.”
Räikkönen has always passionately loved racing. He has never been vague about that. ”Of course I would be living in paradise if this job was only about driving. I love to drive a racing car. I love it when we are able to make the car better and we work efficiently. I love it when we can challenge for victory.”

HE IS HIMSELF
Of all the Finnish drivers Kimi is the one who has definitely changed the least in F1 publicity. Kimi is known as an Iceman and a racing driver but his family and friends know him as a caring guy who has a warm heart. ”I myself don't feel that I've changed at all. There's no reason why I should have. I'm not here to conciously build some public image and I don't think that anyone expects that of me either."
"It's good that I can be exactly the way that I am. I haven't changed a bit and it's nicer when no one is expecting me to be something that I'm really not.”
Well, what is Kimi Räikkönen like then? ”I probably differ from a lot of people in a lot of ways. At least I've lived my life the way I've wanted to. I don't stress about much. I usually do what I want to do.”

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF HIS DRIVING CAREER
Räikkönen would have wanted to drive for Ferrari this year but since that wasn't possible for different reasons he decided to change to a completely different scenery.
F1 star Räikkönen became rally driver Räikkönen. Ferrari's red clothes were replaced by Citroën's and Red Bull's colors when Kimi signed a year-long contract with Red Bull Racing which rents a car for Kimi from Citroën's junior team. ”This is the most difficult challenge of my life. But it's something that I want very much. For the first time I'll have to learn something from the very beginning. On the circuit you race against other cars but in rally you race against the clock. In F1 you sit alone, in rally you sit with a co-driver. The notes are just as important in rally as your gut feeling is in F1."
Räikkönen's rally career has evoked plenty of discussion in the world of motorsport. As expected, Kimi is learning the secrets of the Citroën C4 the hard way. Kimi acquainted himself with snow banks in both Lapland and Sweden. ”The mistakes are perfectly normal and it's also normal that there will be more mistakes. The most important thing is to make the best possible notes and learn to drive precisely according to them.”
There'll be plenty of new things to analyze when moving from snow to gravel and asphalt. ”In F1 you learn the circuits by driving. In rally every corner is different and every situation is new. You only adjust to them when you gain more experience.”

PATIENCE IS DEMANDED
Patience and the will to learn are of course challenged when there are setbacks. But Räikkönen knows how to deal with them in his own efficient way. ”That bad feeling goes away just as quickly as it comes. You're angry for a moment but then you forget about it. I've always been like that. When I started, the car used to brake down all the time and there wouldn't have been much else to do than to cry and complain. But that would have been useless. Throwing a tantrum doesn't help since it doesn't change the result.”
Räikkönen hasn't regretted his choice for a moment. ”I've always wanted to try rally at some point and now that they're driving with WRC cars for the last year it was nice to get to try them as well. I have a contract for this year. Whether I will stay in rally or go back to F1 depends on how my rallying starts going and what happens in F1.”

THREE FACTS ABOUT KIMI
1. Kimi has an exceptionally well developed ability to perceive time, place and shape three-dimentionally. It is a neuropsychological trait which is very beneficial for a racing driver.
2. If Kimi wasn't a racing driver, he would be an ice-hockey player. He used to play ice-hockey as a junior but quit because the training sessions were held too early in the morning.
3. Kimi likes Finnish music. ”I play Finnish music almost all the time. Well, I don't really play music, I usually just listen to the radio”

KIMI'S FRIENDS TELL ABOUT HIM
Räikkönen has a reputation of being the great silent of the race tracks. But what do his team mates and rivals think?
Felipe Massa, who drove three years as Räikkönen's team mate, joked to the Italian press that during a few days he's spoken more with Fernando Alonso than ever with Kimi. Kimi responded to this comment when he was being interviewed by the rally media in Paris before the start of the WRC season. ”I met Dani Sordo when we were driving in the Arctic Lapland Rally and I talked wit him more then than I did with Massa during three years”.
Andrea Stella, who was Räikkönen's race engineer last year and is now responsible for Alonso's car, confessed at the last race of last season that he will miss Kimi both as a friend and as a co-worker. ”I won't miss Kimi only for personal reasons but also because I know what a fast and competitive driver he is”, said Stella.
And what do his rivals think of Räikkönen?
”Kimi is a pretty sympathetic guy. Completely different than I thought based on magazine articles”, said Dani Sordo from Citroën's factory team after his trip to Rovaniemi.
F1 driver Robert Kubica tried rally himself during the winter and he plans to follow Kimi's example after his F1 career. The Pole likes Räikkönen's style and is keeping a close eye on his WRC career. ”I used to have a different attitude towards Kimi until we spoke a bit longer in some Asian GP. Kimi is a weird guy. During three years we used to only exchange a few words. Then suddenly we just started talking and we talked for a long time. Kimi likes carting and Kimi likes rally. Just like I do.”
F1 champion candidate Sebastian Vettel lives close to Räikkönen in Switzerland. Red Bull's German star is tells very openly about liking Kimi's attitude and his relaxed way of life. ”I'm happy that Kimi lives close by. He's a nice guy. I like Kimi a lot because he's always honest and a very open guy. Many people say that they don't like Kimi because of the way that he is. But Kimi can also be very funny. He's always the same and doesn't treat you differently. No matter who you are. Kimi always says exactly what he's thinking.”

http://i679.photobucket.com/albums/vv153/NicoleDamen/citroen2.jpg?t=1268845456

http://i679.photobucket.com/albums/vv153/NicoleDamen/citroen5.jpg?t=1268845499

http://i679.photobucket.com/albums/vv153/NicoleDamen/citroen4.jpg?t=1268845522

http://i679.photobucket.com/albums/vv153/NicoleDamen/citroen3.jpg?t=1268845549

http://i679.photobucket.com/albums/vv153/NicoleDamen/citroen1.jpg?t=1268845577

Boudica

24th March 2010, 00:15

Car magazine (UK) article about Kimi:

http://www.mediafire.com/?vjjhjnkzjdo

Boudica

25th March 2010, 23:28

Raikkonen Test

Former F1 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen has got back into a rally car for the first time since crashing out of the Rally Mexico just over two weeks ago.
Raikkonen completed two days of gravel testing in the south of France earlier this week with his Citroen C4 WRC, in preparation for the Jordan Rally from April 1-3. The Finn concentrated on accumulating more mileage in the car – which he has been desperately short of this year – and evaluating set-ups for the forthcoming gravel rallies.
The 30-year-old managed to get in two full days of running and reported no major problems with his back, which had forced him to cancel the pre-Mexico test. The Finn will now be well prepared as he flies out to Jordan this weekend, which he believes will be a positive event for him.
“It’s completely new to me, but it should be a lot of fun,” he said. “Again, we’re facing a different type of gravel so it’s hard to know exactly what to expect, but the team has some information from the past, so that will definitely help. We’re getting there; it’s just a question of time.”

http://www.maxrally.com/news/entry/raikkonen_tests_c4_wrc/

Boudica

26th March 2010, 01:10

EX-DRIVER NOT HAPPY ABOUT RÄIKKÖNEN-FEVER

The new kind of rally boom caused by Kimi Räikkönen is not to everybody's liking. One of these people is ex-driver Armin Schwartz.

Marketers of WRC have been rubbing their hands together with a satisfied grin on their face since Kimi Räikkönen became the new attraction for the series through a Citroën-contract financed by the energy drink giant Red Bull.

But not everybody is as unconditionally happy with Räikkönen's high profile which has brought visibility to rally in the world's media.

Armin Schwartz, who ended his own career in WRC in 2005, is upset because after Räikkönen's arrival the actual competition has been left in a supporting role.

-It's a pity that I see Räikkönen's triple volt getting half a page of coverage in a news paper when the winner Loeb (Sebastian) has been left as side news, says Schwartz in an interview by internet paper Motorsport Total.

-It doesn't help rally as a sport one bit! says Schwarz.

Schwarz, who has experience of over a hundred WRC rallies, doesn't see Räikkönen's rally future as very rosy. The German doens't believe that Räikkönen's performances will significantly change from what has been seen by now – isolated good SS times and crashes.

-And who knows, maybe this is just temporary for Kimi before he can become a F1 driver for Red Bull, Schwarz hints.

J.Lindstroem

26th March 2010, 03:36

Armin is always so honest. Or is he just pesimistic? I dont know!

COD

26th March 2010, 12:14

Well, I think for once Armin is correct!

miksu

26th March 2010, 14:08

EX-DRIVER NOT HAPPY ABOUT RÄIKKÖNEN-FEVER

-It's a pity that I see Räikkönen's triple volt getting half a page of coverage in a news paper when the winner Loeb (Sebastian) has been left as side news, says Schwartz in an interview by internet paper Motorsport Total.

Yeah, but would Loeb have gotten bigger slize of the page if there wasnt Räikkönen? I think he would have remained on the sides anyways, who knows.

Rallyper

27th March 2010, 22:37

Yeah, but would Loeb have gotten bigger slize of the page if there wasnt Räikkönen? I think he would have remained on the sides anyways, who knows.

I´m on your side. That´s what would have happened.

BDunnell

27th March 2010, 23:14

Yeah, but would Loeb have gotten bigger slize of the page if there wasnt Räikkönen? I think he would have remained on the sides anyways, who knows.

I agree. Anyone who reckons that rallying deserves more than that level of coverage at present is living in cloud cuckoo land.

AndyRAC

28th March 2010, 14:25

I agree. Anyone who reckons that rallying deserves more than that level of coverage at present is living in cloud cuckoo land.

Absolutely!!! Just ask North One...... ;)

Boudica

29th March 2010, 01:39

Raikkonen to partner Vettel at Red Bull in 2011

Kimi Raikkonen is set to replace Red Bull's Mark Webber ahead of the 2011 season.

A report in Germany's Bild am Sonntag said the return of the Finn to Formula One, to become his friend Sebastian Vettel's teammate, is already being arranged.

Raikkonen, 30, is already under contract to the energy drinks company, having switched from Ferrari to world rallying for 2010 with the Red Bull-funded Citroen Junior Team.

RBR team boss Christian Horner recently admitted that hiring Raikkonen for 2011 is an "interesting idea", and speculation about Webber's expiring contract was re-fired this weekend when Lewis Hamilton tipped the Australian to retire.

Horner said on Saturday: "We are very happy with our drivers. Mark is driving very well, and he is not old, as Michael has demonstrated.

"The average age (of F1 drivers) has dropped, but as long as Mark is motivated, competitive and quick, I don't think that he has any thoughts of stopping just yet."

Vettel told Bild am Sonntag: "Kimi and I are good friends, but in the end I don't care who sits in the other car because I still have to beat him."

He would not confirm that the Raikkonen deal is close to being finalised
"I don't know what the team is planning. And in the end, it is of course Kimi's decision. He needs to see how he feels."

http://www.bild.de/BILD/sport/motorsport/formel1/2010/03/28/red-bull/geheimplan-kimi-raeikkoenen-zu-sebastian-vettel.html
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=361902&FS=F1

Barreis

29th March 2010, 07:48

If he's smart he will leave and left a seat to a paying driver.. XD

Langdale Forest

29th March 2010, 08:07

Anyway, I think kimi kid will walk out halfway through the year.

Woodeye

29th March 2010, 17:33

Anyway, I think kimi kid will walk out halfway through the year.

And I think that you are wrong.

noel157

29th March 2010, 18:24

[B]Raikkonen to partner Vettel at Red Bull in 2011

[/B
RBR team boss Christian Horner recently admitted that hiring Raikkonen for 2011 is an "interesting idea", and speculation about Webber's expiring contract was re-fired this weekend when Lewis Hamilton tipped the Australian to retire.

So that is why Webber punted Hamilton off in Melbourne.

Tomi

29th March 2010, 18:32

Anyway, I think kimi kid will walk out halfway through the year.

Why would he do that?

Rallyper

29th March 2010, 20:26

The dreamer fans of F1 still dream Kimi will comeback. But he will remain in WRC for at least two years. :s mokin:

Boudica

29th March 2010, 20:59

Anyway, I think kimi kid will walk out halfway through the year.

Nah, Kimi wouldn't leave in the middle of the year. But every time Webber doesn't perform these rumours will appear.

Boudica

29th March 2010, 21:02

RIKU KUVAJA DOESN'T CARE ABOUT THE GERMAN CLAIMS: NOW WE CONCENTRATE ON RALLY

The German Bild am Sonntag -magazine is busy pushing Kimi Räikkönen back into the F1-circus.

Bild am Sonntag manages to push in fresh F1-rumours in a convenient time. Räikkönen's rally career has started in a coughing way and Webber managed to make a classic blunder in Australia GP.

Riku Kuvaja doesn't listen to the claim.
- Rumours. This is a genre where there has always been and will always be a lot of rumours, Kuvaja said to Iltalehti.
- We are focusing on rally with all we got. When something new appears we will inform.

According to Kuvaja Räikkönen doesn't have the interest to follow all the rumours about him.
- He doesn't read them. Kimi has lived in the same rumour mill for ten years already.

(Translation thanks to Nicole)

Francis44

29th March 2010, 22:56

He will eventually go back to F1, it may be his favourite motorsport because if it wasn't, I dont think he would spend all those years in it.

Boudica

31st March 2010, 20:25

"Okay, so I never thought that a rally could be like holidays, but I have to say that so far here in Jordan it’s been pretty nice.

After the shakedown I had a bit of a chance to relax on the terrace at the hotel and look at the view over the Dead Sea. It’s such a hectic life that it’s nice to empty your head sometimes and think of nothing much. And what’s the point of going to all these different places if you don’t take the time to look at them occasionally? My life used to be a blur of airports and circuits and hotels but I’m determined to enjoy myself this year.

Jordan is a completely new experience for me, but that’s normal as more or less everything this year is new to me. Let’s just say that the whole atmosphere and way of working here is quite different to Formula One, but the challenges are even bigger for me.

I was thinking about that this morning when I drove the shakedown: I still have so few kilometres in the Citroen C4 WRC; basically a couple of hundred and that’s it. And now I’m starting a gravel rally that even the real experts say is quite tough. So I think it’s going to be an interesting few days. The main thing is to learn: you don’t suddenly find a load of time from out of nowhere in this game.

I have to say that I really like the world of rallying so far. It’s impossible to compare it to Formula One as it would be like comparing a square to a triangle, but everything seems just a bit more relaxed and friendly. Everyone has been very welcoming, but there’s still room for me to be myself.

The shakedown this morning was quite rough, but I think we could see some parts of the rally that are like this too, so it was good preparation. For me the main thing is going to be reaching the finish, as on an event that is as specialised as this one, you really need to see every stage. We had a good recce, although it was a bit warm as the air conditioning wasn’t working in the recce car. Strangely, it was actually cooler in the rally car at shakedown - as you have a huge air scoop in the roof that gives you a pretty good supply of cool air once you’re moving.

I’m still at the stage where there’s more time to come out of me than anything else. But if it all comes together - and even up to now, there have been a few moments where that has started to happen - I’d like to set a few decent times. Wish me luck..."

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=231&featureid=2034&desc=WRC%20Pirelli%20driver%20blog%20-%20Kimi%20Raikkonen

Boudica

31st March 2010, 20:26

KIMI'S RETURN TO F1 IS POSSIBLE

After the shakedown on Wednesday morning Räikkönen speculated about his return in a few words. Kimi doesn't deny but he also doesn't admit that his rallying career would be only one year long.

- I don't know, I have a contract for this season. After that I have nothing. This is not the time to decide upon it. I have many options, a lot depends on what I want myself.

The decisions are made later this year and the decision is only Räikkönen's.

- It's my own decision and my own feeling. I have no reason to tell anything more. I guess you find out when it's time for it. There's no hurry, it's still a long way to next year.

Boudica

1st April 2010, 04:25

Shakedown video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DafQvBr-Auc

Sami

1st April 2010, 13:00

You seem to be a "class half empty" kind of person:-) I have seen videos how he is driving and I would say that he is going to beat Wilsow in every rally as long as he is going to stay on the road. He has done some motocross and quite some rally practicing as well. And he is the person whom you can describe that he is fast straight out of the box. He just needs to find the stability and learn how to listen codriver. And he has the best practice planned for that learning (Arctic rally).
written by: "Class half full" person.

I'm sorry but I have bring this back. >Someone else said I'm out of my mind predicting Kimi to loose to Wilson.

4 stages driven, one minute separates Wilson and Räikkönen, actually his difference to top is doubled compared to Wilson's.

By the way: On how many stages Räikkönen has beaten Wilson?

And this speed compared to massive offs in every single rally, four actually in in one rally in Sweden!

Realism?

tmx

1st April 2010, 13:19

Kimi has 5 years to improve. By then, Wilson would be a WRC champion. One minute is nothing, Rautenbach was 4th place in Argentina while being 20minutes behind the leader.

In seriousness I think its too early to judge.

Langdale Forest

3rd April 2010, 13:10

Finsishing 8th in Jordan, Raikkonen will be happy to have finished in the points. He is getting better at being a rally driver. :)

havk

3rd April 2010, 13:56

Finishing rally in points should give him self confidence, looks like he wasn't attacking on this rally just wanted to finish. 12,5 minutes lost doesn't look good but it should be only better after this rally.

Boudica

3rd April 2010, 14:19

RÄIKKÖNEN MADE FINNISH MOSTORSPORT HISTORY!

Kimi Räikkönen wrote his name in the historybooks after his 8th position in Jordan Rally.

On saturday Räikkönen became the first Finnish racer who has scored championship-points in both WRC and F1.

The value of his performance is highlighted by the fact that no other foreign racer has been able to achieve the same except Carlos Reutemann from Argentina in the beginning of the 80's.

(Translation thanks to Nicole)

AndyRAC

3rd April 2010, 14:59

Yes, well done to Kimi.
Carlos Reutemann actually achieved a podium in Argentina in 1985??

Josti

3rd April 2010, 17:08

Yes, well done to Kimi.
Carlos Reutemann actually achieved a podium in Argentina in 1985??

Yes, 3rd in a works Peugeot 205 T16!

Barreis

4th April 2010, 19:11

I like Kimi's work..

ShiftingGears

5th April 2010, 00:10

Yes, well done to Kimi.
Carlos Reutemann actually achieved a podium in Argentina in 1985??

And 1980.

GallardoGT

5th April 2010, 10:38

Yo Kimi, congratulations with your first points! I know you read this forum, got ya ;)

You have the right approach from the start in all aspects imo and now that fun and performance come together you can enjoy the art of (WRC) rallydriving to the max!

vkangas

6th April 2010, 22:09

Had nothing else to do... :)

http://i41.tinypic.com/2zhpiee.jpg

Boudica

7th April 2010, 01:00

The toughest race of my career

If I was an icehockey star, I would say that finishing the Jordan rally in points felt like getting rid of the monkey of my back. O’boy, it gave a great feeling for me. For sure, it was the toughest race of my life. We managed to finish it and it was perfect to get the first points of the season at the same time.

My friend Teemu Selanne has sometimes told me, how special feeling it is to score a goal after some games without getting any. Now I know, how it must feel for him. To get everything right in the Jordan rally, gave us a big relief. While you try and try your very best and you finally succeed, obviously, you’ll be happy.

Me and Kaj Lindstrom, my co-driver, shared the same great feeling on Saturday after finishing the rally without any mistakes of our own. That was the first waypoint we had to achieve before setting any other targets.

It was very hot place, indeed. But it was quite surprising that it didn’t feel that bad inside the car. Actually, it felt even a little bit ‘cool’.

It was the toughest rally I ever done and we drove the longest special stage I ever had before – 41,5 km twice. That was so long, I started to think, if it’s an ever lasting road. But finishing it finally, gave the best of the feelings. In the end of the day, it was a great stage, no doubt of it!

It was a difficult rally, but we eventually achieved our objective. It was great job from the whole team. I’m feeling more and more comfortable in the Citroen C4 WRC every day.

This is not a solitary sport. We have been working hard with Kaj Lindstrom and without him I would never have learned this rally racing as quickly as we did. Kaj is working flat out. I’m grateful for him and I hope we share the good moments like in Jordan as soon as possible again.

The whole team was happy. The team bosses were all smiles. Personally I felt good to get a better feeling with the car on gravel.

Obviously, I’m looking forward to the next rally of Turkey. It’s exciting to see how we go in the next rally in Instanbul.

Now it’s time for a short break and rest. Then it’s back to business. After some work out in the gym we go next week to Turkey and start there again from zero.

GallardoGT

8th April 2010, 11:22

Sulland

8th April 2010, 15:02

I am impressed how quickly he got up to the speed of Wilson and Henning. Thought it would take him longer.

Will be interesting to see the stats of the last rallies of the season, to see if he has gotten even closer !!

N.O.T

8th April 2010, 17:10

Rautenbach should be proud of his succesor after that performance in Jordan....

Boudica

9th April 2010, 01:36

Wow! So ... Boudica ... you are really Kimi ?! :eek:

:s mokin:

Boudica

9th April 2010, 01:36

http://www.kimiraikkonen.com/videos/5.asp

N.O.T

9th April 2010, 08:45

those slow motion videos are great to capture the true action a rally driver goes through during the race.

6789

9th April 2010, 09:39

those slow motion videos are great to capture the true action a rally driver goes through during the race.
lol

snellman

9th April 2010, 16:21

those slow motion videos are great to capture the true action a rally driver goes through during the race.
seriously, three times? you really suck :D

N.O.T

9th April 2010, 20:35

i was away for a week chasing sheep up in the mountains so i am a bit rusty....

A.F.F.

9th April 2010, 21:56

i was away for a week chasing sheep up in the mountains so i am a bit rusty....

Did you find any? And if so, when is the wedding?

N.O.T

9th April 2010, 22:34

You cannot rush those thigs...or you might end with the wrong one.

bluuford

10th April 2010, 18:04

those slow motion videos are great to capture the true action a rally driver goes through during the race.

Specially for you, mountain boy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NAvHch0I8I

N.O.T

10th April 2010, 19:47

very nice but kimmis has better picture quality.

Langdale Forest

10th April 2010, 19:51

What about this slow motion video?

ZCsME9DXCrM

bluuford

10th April 2010, 20:23

very nice but kimmis has better picture quality.

Yeah, Finns have a little bit more money to invest in better cameras, servers to broadcast their Videos ;-)

Langdale Forest

15th April 2010, 19:02

Kimi inspeting his damaged Citroen in Mexico.

http://www.rallysportlive.com/articles/rsl/2010/img/kimi-raikkonen-crash-rally-mexico-2010-1.jpg

Langdale Forest

15th April 2010, 19:06

What can we expect from Kimmi kid in Turkey?

He set a time eaqual to Latvala and that just shows that he is getting better, but that was only on the shakedown...

N.O.T

15th April 2010, 21:48

Koz

16th April 2010, 00:38

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 00:48

yes maybe for the first 2-3 events he did get attention as he was portraiyed as the next big thing the managers and energy drinks discovered but now that everyone saw he is as good as an ashtray on a motorbike all of the above cannot wait for him to anounce his return to the kid racing sport he was in before he decided to try some real men stuff.

Langdale Forest

16th April 2010, 06:49

with the shortage of cars citroen is facing he has only the option of doing a rautenbach once more like he did in Jordan...Citroen have better drivers to use their cars for and i bet they made it clear to kimmi in jordan. If he still ruins another one i see his 1 year plan failing early and that can be tolarated by the fans but not his sponsors.

Remember it is very rare fo a WRC car to be written off, remember Latvala's car from Portugal 2009?

yes maybe for the first 2-3 events he did get attention as he was portraiyed as the next big thing the managers and energy drinks discovered but now that everyone saw he is as good as an ashtray on a motorbike all of the above cannot wait for him to anounce his return to the kid racing sport he was in before he decided to try some real men stuff.

BTW, it is always good to have a driver in the WRC because there would be a lack of drivers if it wasn't for Kimmi Kid, Ken Block, Matthew Wilson and Conrad Rauntenbach.

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 10:22

[quote="Langdale Forest"]Remember it is very rare fo a WRC car to be written off, remember Latvala's car from Portugal 2009?[quote]

yes but bare in mind that citroen have focused on the ds3 now so parts to replace even if the car chassis can be used still are limited to those that are trully needed.

And if you take into account the decrease in performance of kimi (from garbage rally driver level to rautenbach driver level) its a good indication hat his orders from the managers and sponsors and from those that provide his toys are different. of course i might be wrong but i cannot remeber the last time i was wrong about something (damn you ken block !!!).

JRodrigues

16th April 2010, 10:29

And if you take into account the decrease in performance of kimi (from garbage rally driver level to rautenbach driver level) its a good indication hat his orders from the managers and sponsors and from those that provide his toys are different. of course i might be wrong but i cannot remeber the last time i was wrong about something (damn you ken block !!!).

I don't remember when Rautenbach beat Wilson on a stage..

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 10:37

I don't remember when Rautenbach beat Wilson on a stage..

and i don't remember when kimi beat wilson either....and on a stage hasn't done it yet with both running on equal levels.

about rautenbach winning on a stage against wilson...i think he did it last year on some occasions, i think.

JRodrigues

16th April 2010, 10:38

and i don't remember when kimi beat wilson either....

we can see now that you have a memory of a fish..

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 10:42

we can see now that you have a memory of a fish..

i missed the stage part...thats why. but again the times kimi beat wilson are rae and not when both running on equal field.

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 11:15

also check the first day of rally ireland last year and australia if you want gravel....oooooops.

Boudica

16th April 2010, 11:19

and i don't remember when kimi beat wilson either....and on a stage hasn't done it yet with both running on equal levels.

about rautenbach winning on a stage against wilson...i think he did it last year on some occasions, i think.

Lol seems like might wrong again. :)

Kimi is off to a good start and he is showing definite improvement from his first day in Jorddon.

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 11:23

Lol seems like might wrong again. :)

Kimi is off to a good start and he is showing definite improvement from his first day in Jorddon.

yes definite improvement...he loses to villagra as well this time not only wilson.

jorddon.... like michael jorddon ??

miksu

16th April 2010, 14:42

I think its pretty clear how Kimi is improving in each rally. He has become more consistent and more reliable in every rally he has competed so far. I think he is doing a great job, no matter what.

Langdale Forest

16th April 2010, 14:48

Kimi is faster than Matthew Wilson so that just shows how bad Matthew Wilson really is.

N.O.T

16th April 2010, 20:16

but slower than villagra.....

vkangas

16th April 2010, 23:03

Kimi's pace to fastest, Turkey day1 added:

http://i43.tinypic.com/s42avs.jpg

Boudica

17th April 2010, 00:27

Kimi's pace to fastest, Turkey day1 added:

http://i43.tinypic.com/s42avs.jpg

Thanks :D

Boudica

17th April 2010, 00:28

but slower than villagra.....

Yes, hopefully he can catch Villagra tomorrow. :)

Boudica

17th April 2010, 00:34

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1zLx-hiAPc

LadySnowcat

17th April 2010, 10:59

Kimi is faster than Matthew Wilson so that just shows how bad Matthew Wilson really is.

Hmmm....

An unbeliever...

LadySnowcat

17th April 2010, 11:01

but slower than villagra.....

Not any more....

Actually faster than Federico on all stages this morning...

vkangas

17th April 2010, 20:17

Day 2 updated:

http://i39.tinypic.com/2hdpqc3.jpg