“I Had My Contract Ripped” – Kimi Raikkonen Reveals Ron Dennis Confrontation at McLaren F1

Kimi Raikkonen is a man of few words and is known for his straightforward approach and unfiltered opinions. He has been in F1 long enough to leave behind a gazillion memories that fans would cherish for times to come. The 2007 world champion is all set to appear in his last Grand Prix (349th start of his career) at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi later this week.

The Finn has driven for many outfits in his illustrious career. His relationship with then Mclaren boss Ron Dennis was surely a mixed one. Dennis was known for enforcing strict boundaries around the conduct of the drivers but Kimi was not on board with a few of them.

#F1:Kimi Raikkonen and Ron Dennis after Raikkonen’s win, Japan 2005 https://t.co/WWVAYOWIXn pic.twitter.com/lw4lF9YFbv

— theUsher13 (@theJudge13Twts) October 3, 2017

Kimi Raikkonen and Ron Dennis

The Finn was driving for the Surrey-based team in the 2002-2006 period. He was a title contender in 2003 where he finished 2 points behind Michael Schumacher. However, his life beyond the track was not in line with Dennis’ vision and that used to cause friction between the two. The Mclaren boss even went close to stripping Raikkonen of his seat at the team. In a recent interview with ESPN, the Iceman discussed his relationship with his former boss candidly.

“Ron always wanted to do it his way because how he sees the whole team and its image [is one thing], and I completely understand but I wasn’t ready to do that. But I never cared about it, I always knew I was quick enough so I would sort it out one way or another,” said Kimi as reported by ESPN.

“In most parts, yes it was fine, but in some parts, he was absolutely not happy. I had my contract ripped and put in a bag and he gave it to me like that. But then I won the next race and he said, ‘No, no, no, no, it’s OK, let’s forget the whole thing,” he added jokingly.

Formula One F1 – Belgian Grand Prix – Spa-Francorchamps, Spa, Belgium – August 27, 2021 Alfa Romeo’s Kimi Raikkonen during practice REUTERS/Johanna Geron

The personal equation between the two

Kimi Raikkonen went on to bust some myths about his relationship with Dennis. The Finn said that there was a healthy side to their association as well which was intact even after he left the team. “People always felt like I had a s*** relationship with Ron, but I don’t think I had a s*** relationship. For sure, we had some arguments and he needed to kick me out a few times, but fair play,” said the 42-year-old.

“I think as a person, if we wouldn’t be sitting in the F1 paddock and we were just chatting about normal things, I always had a good relationship with him. Even when I saw him afterward, I always joked with him,” he added.

After a long and successful career, Kimi is bidding farewell to the sport. Fans are hoping that he will put up a great show for them in Abu Dhabi this week. Tell us your favorite Kimi Raikkonen moment on the track.

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