Partying and racing was normal for Raikkonen

Kimi Raikkonen may be 39 and entering the latter stages of his career but he’s still the same Kimi as he opened up about is party lifestyle on the Beyond the Grid podcast.

Raikkonen won his only World Championship in 2007 and has since driven for Sauber, Lotus and Ferrari. The Iceman signed for Alfa Romeo Racing for the 2019 season replacing Charles Leclerc who went the other way to Ferrari.

Raikkonen has always been known for his relaxed lifestyle and was seen a little worse for wear at the FIA prize-giving ceremony last year. The Finn revealed to Tom Clarkson on the Beyond the Grid podcast that he feels he drives better when he’s having fun.

“Obviously it’s been a joke often, but I actually think it’s more true than a joke that I’ve often been driving better doing whatever I want between the races, than if I’m just not having fun and drinks and stuff,” said Raikkonen.

The 2007 champ also reflected on his infamous 2012 spell between Bahrain and Spain: “There are too many proven theories… that [you drive] better [after] a bit more fun.

“That whole summer was more or less racing and partying, it’s nothing new – for me it’s normal,” added the Finn.