MUST-SEE: Raikkonen makes up 10 positions on incredible opening lap in Portimao
When conditions are tricky, experience counts, as F1’s record starts holder Kimi Raikkonen proved in Sunday’s inaugural Portuguese Grand Prix at Portimao, with the Iceman making up an incredible 10 positions in a dizzying opening lap.
Raikkonen lined up 16th on the grid in his Alfa Romeo, but with conditions extremely tricky – a low grip track surface exacerbated by a smattering of light rain – the Finnish driver made the most of his soft tyres as those around him struggled to fire up their mediums in the cool temperatures.
Finding grip where others couldn't, the 41-year-old turned back the years as he sailed past the likes of George Russell, Sebastian Vettel, Lance Stroll and Esteban Ocon as he closed up to the race leaders.
The best start of the year? Probably.
Watch all the action in the video above!
Next Up
Related Articles
REVEALED: Your favourite race of the 2025 season
Lindblad's car number confirmed for rookie season
ExclusiveWhy Sainz feels ‘vindicated’ after his first Williams year
Our writers on the best drivers and stories from 2025
Sauber’s best moments and most memorable liveries in F1
Verstappen reflects on Mercedes talks and F1 future