The penultimate round of the Formula 1 World Championship at Brazil's Interlagos circuit this weekend will be bring back some fond memories for Kimi Raikkonen.

In 2007, the venue was the scene of the Finn's triumph and coronation as world champion, beating Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso by a single point.

“What I remember most about that weekend is the determination with which the team set about securing the goal it had set itself going into the event, namely winning the championship," Kimi said at last weekend's Finali Mondiali event in Mugello.

"It was so nice to end the year with a win and with the championship, and for everyone it was a relief."

The Sao Paulo track is the shortest layout on the calendar after Monaco and Mexico, and more of an old generation track from a technical perspective, but it's still one Raikkonen greatly appreciates.

“I like this track, even though it’s very short, because if you tackle it properly, it’s great fun to drive," Raikkonen said.

"Last year, the track was resurfaced and the grip level was high, something drivers always like as it means you can be more aggressive. The fact it’s a short track doesn’t mean it’s easy to set up the car. There are many factors to take into consideration, not least of which is the weather.”

'In F1 you discover a whole new person in yourself' - click here for the full Carlos Sainz interview

Click here for an exclusive Q&A with Jolyon Palmer

Use the red tabs on either side of the screen to scroll through more Formula One news and features

Click here for the F1 drivers' girlfriends gallery

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

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

Sebastian Montoya steps up to Formula 2 with Prema

Sebastian Montoya, the 19-year-old son of former Formula 1 star Juan Pablo Montoya, is set…

8 hours ago

Sauber finds its ‘Northern Star’ under Binotto’s leadership

When former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto took on the role of Chief Operating Officer…

9 hours ago

Leclerc hails a season ‘without missed opportunities' in 2024

Charles Leclerc concluded the 2024 F1 season with a sense of satisfaction, the Ferrari driver…

11 hours ago

Coulthard sounds alarm over FIA president’s rift with F1 drivers

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has voiced his dismay at FIA president Mohammed Ben…

12 hours ago

The rapid rise and fall of Super Aguri in F1

Super Aguri's application to join Formula 1 became a reality on this day in 2005,…

14 hours ago

Ferrari's 2024 Season: Marked improvement and a fight to the finish

Ferrari roared back into contention in 2024 to deliver their strongest season in years, thanks…

15 hours ago