Photo: Ferrari

Raikkonen to Depart Ferrari at End of 2018

By Joey Barnes, Editor-in-Chief

Ferrari has confirmed that Kimi Raikkonen will step down from his current role following the 2018 Formula 1 season.

In the midst of his second stint with the Maranello-based squad, the 38-year-old Finn has endured a fair amount of difficulties, having scored zero wins and 23 podiums in 93 races over that span. However, this season has seen a resurgence of sorts with nine podiums through the first 14 events, including a pole and runner-up finish in the most recent round – the Italian Grand Prix – at Monza.

Raikkonen’s only world title came in 2007 during his first stint with the team – coincidentally the last time Ferrari had a driver claim the championship – and lasted through the end of 2009.

“During these years, Kimi’s contribution to the Team, both as a driver and on account of his human qualities, has been fundamental,” Ferrari said via team statement. “He played a decisive role in the team’s growth and was, at the same time, always a great team player.

“As a World Champion for Scuderia Ferrari, he will always be part of the Team’s history and family. We thank Kimi for all of this and wish him and his family a prosperous future.”

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Joey Barnes is the Founder of Motorsports Tribune. He has covered auto racing since 2013 that has spanned from Formula 1 to NASCAR, with coverage on IndyCar. Additionally, his work has appeared on Racer, IndyCar.com and Autoweek magazine. In 2017, he was recognized with an award in Spot News Writing by the National Motorsports Press Association.