Tom Coronel Reveals Why ‘Lucky Motherf**ker’ Kimi Raikkonen is Still in F1

Tom Coronel has revealed his verdict on the first half of the season. He listed out the performances that failed to impress him; featured on the list, Kimi Raikkonen. The Dutch driver had some harsh words against the world champion, labeling his performance as shameful; stating that it’s time for Kimi to go.

Coronel said, “Shame! I think he’s bleeding to death. Kimi, of course, provides a top story and top radios, but he can’t stand out anymore.” Voicing his opinion on the 41-year-old driver, he added, “And when that’s no longer possible, you have to make way for the new heroes.”

Formula One F1 – Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy – Alfa Romeo’s Kimi Raikkonen in action during practice REUTERS/Jennifer Lorenzini

Tom Coronel was merciless in his criticism. He stated that Raikkonen’s leave from the sport has been overdue. “He sounded tired of it ten years ago, but the funny thing is that he has a seriously fat racing heart and really realizes that he is a lucky motherf*cker that he still drives Formula 1. Because after that they all fall into such a big hole because there is really nothing after Formula 1.” [translated using Google Translate]

The argument surrounding Kimi Raikkonen

Kimi Raikkonen’s performance this season has been an ongoing debate. While some share Coronel’s views, others argue that Raikkonen’s age has nothing to do with his performance. The Iceman falls back in qualifying sessions, but his performance on Sundays is nothing short of commendable.

Read More: Tom Coronel Believes Fernando Alonso Can Never Reach Level of Senna, Schumacher & Verstappen

Compared to his 27-year-old teammate, the Fin performs equally, if not better. Looking at the basic statistics, it’s a close battle between the two. Kimi has been battling the faster cars in the front, trying to get points for Alfa Romeo.

11 races into 2021, and here’s how Kimi and Antonio compare in the battle of the @alfaromeoracing drivers #F1 pic.twitter.com/GdMvix7BLG

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 7, 2021

It’s no doubt that Kimi’s performance isn’t close to how it once was. The champion has graced the podium 103 times in his career. Raikkonen has had many decent races, including the more recent Hungarian GP. His well-timed overtake on Ricciardo, eventually gave him the points he had been fighting for. He would’ve finished higher if he avoided the 10-second penalty.

A driver that does all his talking on the track, Raikkonen has a lot left to say. While drivers like Alonso prove that age is but a number, Raikkonen has been doing an impressive job as the most experienced on the grid. Raikkonen’s seat eventually depends on him and Frederic Vasseur. Whether we see the ice-cold Fin next season, the 2021 season has 12 more races for Raikkonen to prove his naysayers wrong.

Watch this story: From Drunk Gala to Dry Responses: Kimi Raikkonen’s Funniest Moments

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