How did Kimi Raikkonen’s F1 Journey Begin? A look back at his first tests for Sauber. Let us take a trip down memory lane.

In September 2000, Peter Sauber invited Kimi Raikkonen for a test run. Raikkonen’s carting escapades had greatly impressed the Sauber supremo. Kimi’s principle of “talk less, drive more” resonated with Sauber’s needs. Sauber was quick to catch on that Kimi was something special and had to be protected by all means necessary.

When Raikkonen turned up at Mugello Circuit – heads were turned and questions were asked. Kimi was 20 years old (not even old enough to drive road cars) with a career that spanned a paltry 23 races. Day 2 was when Raikkonen truly shined. Kimi went a full 5 tenths quicker than Diniz’s best time during the first few laps. What truly stood out was Raikkonen’s controlled aggression- being fast, but efficient – amazed his race engineer.