Kimi Räikkönen’s First Impressions on the 2026 Season

Iceman Lauds New Cars, Promises Exciting Racing

As the 2026 season kicks off, Formula 1 legend Kimi Räikkönen has shared his first impressions of the new cars, praising their speed and promising close races ahead.

“The car feels nice, we still have a lot of running and learning to do, but it was good to see it out on track. All the cars look really nice and they are quick.”

Kimi Räikkönen

Despite the changes, Räikkönen believes the competitive landscape will remain packed.

“I don’t think the gaps on the grid will be as big as people think, we will have some close fights. It will take time for everyone to understand, particularly with the battery management, but once we start racing it will all get very exciting.”

Kimi Räikkönen

Expect More Kimi Antics, But No Cake to the Face

Though no longer an F1 rookie, Räikkönen’s famous character isn’t about to change. However, he has ruled out a repeat of his cake-to-the-face prank on team boss Bono this year.

“I’m still planning to celebrate birthdays in the team, but I’m not going to do the cake this year, though. I have a plan for Bono, but I need to buy a water gun!”

Kimi Räikkönen

Goals for the Year: Stay Disciplined, Grow as a Person

Looking ahead, the Finn’s primary goal is to give his best and stay disciplined throughout the season.

“I would be happy if in December 2026 I was always able to give 100% this year, and say that I got everything out of it, by staying disciplined. I want to keep growing as a person this year, that’s the ultimate goal. We’ll have to see where that takes us.”

Kimi Räikkönen

Did You Know?

Stay Tuned for More Updates

That’s all for now from Räikkönen’s first impressions. Stay with 247Sports.News for more updates on the 2026 F1 season as they roll in.