Race and classic pictures

The Iceman will no longer be bothered

Kimi Raikkonen's taciturn nature - a signature trait that has ironically only added to his popularity over the years – has often projected the image of a quiet man with little troubles.

However, in the heat of the moment, when his full focus is on the job at hand, the Iceman won't hesitate to abruptly dismiss an incoming message form his team's pitwall.

"Just leave me alone, I know what to do" is undoubtedly the Finn's most memorable F1 retort, one that has been elevated to the rank of a genuine catchphrase ever since it was heard on F1's radio waves in Abu Dhabi in 2012, when the Iceman was driving for Lotus.

Kimi's Alfa Romeo team has emblazoned his famous words on the side of his C41 car for this weekend's season ending round at Yas Marina that will also conclude Raikkonen's career in F1.

It's the ultimate tribute to the Iceman!

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

Hamilton won't miss current F1 cars - but fears 2026 'might be worse'

As Formula 1 prepares to wave goodbye to its current rule set in Abu Dhabi,…

1 hour ago

F1 drivers rally around Antonelli after abuse from ‘scum of the earth’

On the eve of Formula 1’s season finale in Abu Dhabi, drivers set aside championship…

2 hours ago

Abu Dhabi GP: Thursday's media day in pictures

Formula 1's 2025 season hurtles toward its dramatic close this weekend in Yas Marina, with…

15 hours ago

Verstappen: Let McLaren play games – 'all that matters is the trophy'

In a title showdown charged with tension, numbers, and a hint of intra-team intrigue, Max…

16 hours ago

Leclerc says Ferrari early pivot to 2026 ‘a no-brainer’

Charles Leclerc isn’t sugarcoating Ferrari’s struggles this season – but he also isn’t second-guessing the…

17 hours ago

Hadjar moving to Red Bull with ‘no expectations’ amid 2026 reset

Red Bull Racing’s newest recruit, Isack Hadjar, is stepping into Formula 1’s hottest seat with…

18 hours ago