In a rare and heartfelt message that captured the emotional side of one of Formula 1’s most stoic legends, Kimi Räikkönen took a moment to reflect on his long and storied career—one filled with raw speed, unshakable determination, and an uncompromising attitude that earned him both a World Championship and the undying respect of motorsport fans across the globe.
But this time, it wasn’t about lap times or race wins. It was about love, loyalty, and gratitude.
The famously reserved Finn, who has built his reputation on few words and even fewer interviews, opened up in a recent personal note to express deep appreciation for the people who stood by him throughout the rollercoaster of his career—his parents, his wife Minttu, and the countless fans who supported him no matter the outcome.
“My career had many highs, but also a lot of challenges,” Kimi said. “Through it all, I’ve had people by my side who never stopped believing in me. That means more than any trophy ever could.”
Kimi began by honoring his parents, who sacrificed greatly in his early years to help him pursue his passion for racing. “Without them, I wouldn’t have made it out of the karting days,” he shared. “They gave me everything—even when we had almost nothing.”
Known for their humility and dedication, the Räikkönen family laid the foundation for Kimi’s success long before he ever stepped foot in a Formula 1 paddock. His father, Matti, worked multiple jobs to support his son’s motorsport dreams, while his mother, Paula, provided constant encouragement and stability behind the scenes.
No tribute would have been complete without a special mention of Kimi’s wife, Minttu Räikkönen, who has been a calming and supportive presence in his post-racing years. The two met in 2013 and married in 2016, forming a strong and private bond that helped guide Kimi through the latter part of his F1 career and into family life.
“She’s seen the real me—the good and the bad,” Kimi admitted. “She’s kept me grounded, helped me be a better father, and reminded me what truly matters in life.”
Minttu, a fitness model and lifestyle influencer, has been candid about Kimi’s transformation from racer to devoted family man, often sharing tender moments with their children, Robin and Rianna. Fans have come to admire how she softened the famously tough racer, showing the world a more human, affectionate side of the Iceman.
To the Fans: “You’ve Made This Journey Special”
Kimi didn’t forget the loyal fans who stood by him throughout two decades in motorsport—from his early days at Sauber and McLaren, to his World Championship with Ferrari, and his later return to Alfa Romeo.
“To all my fans around the world—you’ve made this journey special. Your support during the good days and your patience during the hard ones never went unnoticed. I may not have always shown it, but I felt it every time I raced.”
Even now, in retirement, Kimi remains one of the most beloved and meme-worthy figures in Formula 1. His unfiltered radio messages, iconic “leave me alone, I know what I’m doing” quote, and unwillingness to play the PR game made him an anti-hero the fans could never get enough of.
The message ended with a line that was simple, but undeniably powerful coming from someone who’s never been known for sentimentality:
“I love you all.”
It’s not every day that the Iceman lets the warmth melt through. But in this rare moment of vulnerability, Kimi showed the world that beneath the tough exterior lies a man full of gratitude, reflection, and deep love for those who walked beside him every step of the way.
And in doing so, he reminded us once again why he’ll always be more than just a champion—he’ll be a legend.
