Heikki Kovalainen has given hen-pecked Fernando Alonso an idea of the real meaning of 'team orders'.
Alonso and McLaren parted company at the end of last year after he and team principal Ron Dennis were involved in a bust-up on the morning of the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The Spaniard had threatened Dennis with divulging all he knew in relation to the spy scandal unless he was given number one status.
Alonso had grown frustrated at his misconceived perception of playing second fiddle to Lewis Hamilton.
Dennis has long insisted there are no team orders and his drivers are granted equal status - a situation that seemingly does not exist in Alonso's personal life now he is married.
Alonso had a jocular dig at Kovalainen when the Finn commented on where he would be heading for his summer break following this weekend's race at the Hungaroring.
"I will go to north Finland to see my parents, do a little bit of fishing, walking in the forest, enjoying not seeing anyone else," remarked Kovalainen.
"I will see some animals - reindeer, maybe bears, things like that.
"In my family I make the decisions where I go. I don't know what my girlfriend will do, but it is my holiday."
Smiling, Alonso replied: "You will see. Wait two years!"
But quick as a flash, Kovalainen responded: "This is a team order in my team, and I'm in a strong position this time."
Later asked whether they would consider joining the former Formula One Drivers' Club come the day when they retire, Alonso appeared clearly under the thumb.
"I will do whatever my wife wants," said Alonso.
"If it's time to join the club, I will join. If she says no, then I won't join."
Kovalainen, taking a smiling pop at Alonso, remarked: "For me it's the opposite.
"If they ask me to join the club, I'll make my decision whether my girlfriend is happy or not.
"I try to keep it that way, I think it's better."
A blushing Alonso opted not to counter, underlining Kovalainen is clearly his own man and makes his own decisions - in and out of the car.
The 26-year-old will not be browbeaten into doing team-mate Lewis Hamilton any favours either, even though his title chances are all but over as he trails the Briton by 30 points.
Kovalainen added: "First of all, I don't think Lewis needs any help.
"He has shown himself he can do the job and he doesn't need anyone there.
"The second point is I am trying to do the maximum for myself, and I am not helping any other drivers, that's for sure.
"I have no instructions from the team. In the past it has been very clear at McLaren they have had the policy of equal drivers and both have the same opportunities.
"I have the same car, the same opportunity and I am working towards improving the pace and the results.
"The last few races have been a little disappointing, but the only way to move on is to keep working hard and eventually the results will come.
"Interestingly, it always arises I am helping and in the support role, but I don't see it like that."
