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Kimi Raikkonen rates the new generation of F1 drivers
- Jeroen Immink
With Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Oliver Bearman and Jack Doohan, a new generation of Formula 1 drivers is ready to take over. All three have now been confirmed with various Formula 1 teams and will have to take over. Former world champion Kimi Raikkonen thinks this breath of fresh air is good for Formula 1.
Raikkonen finds new faces 'great'
Raikkonen was present at Monza during the Italian Grand Prix when it was announced that Antonelli will drive for Mercedes next year. "Yeah, I heard! When we came here, someone said they announced it," Raikkonen told F1.com. Antonelli is the third Formula 2 driver alongside Bearman (Haas) and Doohan (Alpine) to switch from F2 to Formula 1.
"It’s great. A lot of new faces, I think, coming next year, a lot of new drivers that have been signed to F1. It’s good for the sport, and it’s also great to have an Italian in the championship. It’s good for everybody, I think," concluded The Iceman.
Raikkonen on moving to F1 today : 'It’s much easier'
According to Raikkonen, Formula 1 of the past cannot be compared to today. "Obviously, these days they have simulators. When I started, there was no simulator, you [just] jumped in and got going!" said the Finn, who thinks current generations are made easier than they used to be.
"I think it’s much easier [to move up to F1], in many ways, now. You can do a lot of testing, obviously, and get ready. I wish them and all the rest all the best!" Raikkonen concluded.
Raikkonen made his debut in Formula 1 for Sauber's team in 2001. In total, he won 21 Grand Prixs and took the world title in 2007. Raikkonen is the last driver who managed to become world champion for Ferrari.
This article has been created in collaboration with Jenny Garnett
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