Kimi Raikkonen’s career almost took a much different path when he made his return to sport.
Former F1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer disclosed that he was in talks to sign Kimi Raikkonen during the latter’s return to the sport. Raikkonen left F1 after the 2009 season to pursue rallying but aimed to make a comeback in 2012. Force India, where Szafnauer held a senior role, showed interest in signing Raikkonen following their successful 2011 season. Despite the discussions, Raikkonen eventually opted to join Lotus and later moved to Ferrari in 2014. Szafnauer recounted a meeting with Raikkonen in late 2011, where they discussed a potential move to Force India before attending a Red Bull party together. At the party, Raikkonen’s companions, possibly the creators of Angry Birds, helped them gain access, highlighting Raikkonen’s considerate nature.
