Raikkonen takes up MXGP team principal role after ending F1 career

Raikkonen bowed out of F1 at the end of 2021, bringing to an end an illustrious career in the pinnacle of motorsport. 

He started his career with Sauber before moving to McLaren.

After two title defeats in 2003 and 2005, Raikkonen secured the drivers’ title in 2007 with Ferrari - he still remains the Italian team’s most recent champion.

Spells at Lotus, Ferrari and then Alfa Romeo rounded off a remarkable career for Raikkonen.

The Finn remained coy about his plans after F1, insisting he would be putting a lot of time aside for his family.

The 42-year-old will run the team alongside former motocross winner Antti Pyrhonen.

Speaking of the news, Raikkonen said: “It’s no secret that, for me, one of my great passions in life for many years has been motocross but this team is not what you might call a hobby; it’s very serious, very focused and we aspire to be the best we possibly can,” explained Raikkonen.

“Now I have retired from racing I will be able to spend more time on this project, not on the daily issues but more from a strategic point of view using my experience of how teams work and what creates success on the world stage. 

“Everyone including myself is delighted that Kawasaki has chosen us to be the Factory team. I know that the chance of success is always greater with direct factory support so this translates into a great opportunity for us as the new Kawasaki Racing Team in MXGP.”