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
What to look forward to when F1 returns after the break
UnlockedPALMER: Why Norris was so strong in Hungary
Inside Liam Lawson's life away from the track
Haas drivers offer verdict on Hungarian GP
Honda’s updated power unit debuts in Aston Martin filming day
BettingWhy Norris' Hungarian GP win is good news for F1 bettors