Age "is just a number" for Kimi Raikkonen

Kimi Raikkonen

Age "is just a number" for Raikkonen

Raikkonen is the oldest Formula 1 driver currently competing in the sport

Ian Parkes & Sam Hall

Friday 10 July 2020 10:30

Kimi Raikkonen insists age "is just a number" and that his body has yet to tell him it is time to quit Formula 1.

At 40 years old, Raikkonen is currently the oldest driver on the F1 grid. The 2021 season will see the return of Fernando Alonso, who will also turn 40 during the campaign.

Addressing what it is like to still be competing at 40, the Alfa Romeo driver said: "I'm sure it's not like it was when we were in our 20s.

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"But I think generally the whole sport has changed a lot since those days, and this year has been pretty easy because we haven't done any races except one.

"I wouldn't say the training has changed. If anything, it's probably less because when you're comparing to almost 20 years ago - probably as the training goes, everybody's a bit smarter as to what needs to be done, what not to do, what is helpful and what can actually be harmful.

"I think as long as you feel you are capable of doing what you expect to from yourself, it is just a number.

"As soon as you feel it is happening a bit too fast, and obviously that will come at some point, then I think whatever you do, you can't move time backwards.

"I haven't honestly felt much different in recent years."

Asked how long into his 40s the Finn believes he can continue to compete, Raikkonen said: "It's impossible to answer. It's a very individual thing.

"Obviously, if you stay healthy and you don't have any injuries, everybody will feel different, and I don't know. I don't think anybody knows.

"There is some point where the limit comes, where it gets more and more tricky, but I don't feel that happening at all yet."

Before you go...

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