It’s official…Raikkonen to leave Ferrari

After months and months of speculation, Ferrari have finally announced Kimi Raikkonen is to leave the team at the end of the season.

The Scuderia have confirmed that Raikkonen will ‘step down from his current role’ at the end of the 2018 season.

Charles Leclerc was then confirmed as Raikkonen’s replacement at Ferrari in a separate statement.

Raikkonen, who began his Formula 1 career back in 2001, has spent a total of eight seasons with the Scuderia and is currently their most recent World Champion having clinched the title in 2007.

In a short statement made to the press, Ferrari have paid tribute to Raikkonen for all that he has given to the Scuderia.

“During these years, Kimi’s contribution to the team, both as a driver and on account of his human qualities, has been fundamental,” said team boss Maurizio Arrivabene.

“He played a decisive role in the team’s growth and was, at the same time, always a great team player.

“As a world champion for Scuderia Ferrari, he will always be part of the team’s history and family.

“We thank Kimi for all of this and wish him and his family a prosperous future.”

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