F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Vettel hails uncomplicated Raikkonen as 'best team mate ever'

Sebastian Vettel believes Kimi Raikkonen's dismissive and uncomplicated nature makes him the best team mate the German driver has ever had in his F1 career.

For some in F1, Raikkonen is as uncommunicative as they come. But the Finn's simple and straightforward persona also reflects his complete disinterest in playing any games.

And when it comes to co-existing with a team mate, Vettel values the Iceman's uncomplicated approach to racing.

"Obviously it makes it a lot easier if you have somebody who you are working with that you feel the respect," the German told Motorsport.com.

"You know, many times people tend to make things much more complicated than they are, especially in Formula 1, so it’s good if you can work with somebody where there are no politics or no confusions or anything.

"In this regard, Kimi is probably the best teammate that I had. He is pretty straightforward, but I also got along well with Daniel [Ricciardo]."

Vettel's relationship with Mark Webber however, during their years together at Red Bull Racing, was at times a complicated affair.

"With Mark, obviously at times we had our differences," Vettel admits.

"Also I have to say we were different generations, so we probably from the start were not that close. But that is how it is."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Ben Sulayem eyes another controversial FIA rule change

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is reportedly seeking to dismantle another longstanding safeguard governing the…

34 minutes ago

Cadillac explains why Perez deserved new long-term deal

Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss has made clear that Sergio Perez’s value to the American…

17 hours ago

A champion's welcome: Antonelli honoured by Italian president

Formula 1 world champion Kimi Antonelli received a particularly special welcome home this week, with…

18 hours ago

Norris admits Hamilton has changed his outlook on F1 success

Lando Norris has revealed that Lewis Hamilton’s longevity and continued ability to compete at the…

20 hours ago

An F1 journeyman made of the right stuff

Former F1 driver Brett Lunger, born on this day in 1945, is pictured here hitching…

21 hours ago

Schumacher: Hamilton ‘not fast enough’ to have Ferrari n°1 status

Ralf Schumacher has once again questioned Lewis Hamilton's credentials at Ferrari, arguing that the seven-time…

22 hours ago