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David Coulthard Explains Why Kimi Raikkonen Didn’t Match Michael Schumacher’s Multi-Title Legacy

Arthur Ling by Arthur Ling
January 1, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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David Coulthard Explains Why Kimi Raikkonen Didn’t Match Michael Schumacher’s Multi-Title Legacy

Mar 26, 2023; Austin, Texas, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kimi Raikkonen (91) is introduced at Circuit of the Americas. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

Kimi Raikkonen, the celebrated “Iceman” of Formula 1, earned his solitary World Championship in 2007 with Ferrari, but his career often leaves fans wondering what might have been. Why did a driver with such undeniable raw talent fail to amass multiple titles like the legendary Michael Schumacher? According to David Coulthard, Raikkonen’s former teammate at McLaren, the answer lies in stark contrasts in work ethic and team engagement.


Raikkonen’s Rise and Rapid Decline

When Raikkonen joined Ferrari in 2007, expectations were sky-high. Coming off years of battling with unreliable machinery at McLaren, his move to Maranello promised not just championship potential but a legacy as Schumacher’s successor. Raikkonen delivered immediately, clinching his maiden title in a dramatic 2007 Brazilian Grand Prix, where he overcame a points deficit to defeat both McLaren drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.

However, after this initial triumph, Raikkonen’s performances stagnated. While his raw speed and moments of brilliance never disappeared, he failed to mount another serious title challenge during his time with Ferrari. Raikkonen eventually left the team after the 2009 season before making a comeback with Lotus in 2012 and later rejoining Ferrari in 2014.


Coulthard’s Analysis: Talent vs. Work Ethic

Coulthard, a respected figure in the F1 paddock, praised Raikkonen’s natural ability but pointed to a key difference between Raikkonen and Schumacher: work ethic and leadership.

“He had a lot of talent, and he won a World Championship. But if he had the work ethic of Michael Schumacher, he would have won more,” Coulthard explained.

Schumacher, Coulthard noted, didn’t just drive the car—he drove the team. Whether at the circuit or in the factory, Schumacher’s relentless commitment to perfection pushed Ferrari to their unprecedented dominance in the early 2000s. He not only held engineers and mechanics accountable but also inspired them to reach new heights.

“Michael controlled the engineers and mechanics at the circuit and in the factory. He held them accountable, and they understood it,” Coulthard emphasized.


The Power of Team Bonds

Coulthard further elaborated on the importance of forming strong relationships within the team, a cornerstone of Schumacher’s success.

“If you’re there standing over engineers and mechanics, they feel it, it empowers them. You are the fuel that helps drive them forward,” Coulthard said.

While Schumacher excelled in this department, Raikkonen’s more aloof and understated personality meant he didn’t engage with the team in the same way. While his cool demeanor endeared him to fans, it may have hindered his ability to galvanize the Ferrari squad into sustained championship contention.


A Legacy of Moments, Not Dynasties

Raikkonen’s career is remembered for flashes of brilliance—his 2005 Suzuka win, his 2007 title triumph, and a triumphant comeback victory with Lotus in 2012. Yet his lack of sustained dominance raises questions about whether he maximized his potential.

Schumacher’s legacy, in contrast, is built not just on his driving talent but on his leadership and meticulous preparation. His ability to turn Ferrari into an unstoppable force remains unmatched, a feat Raikkonen was unable to replicate.


What Modern F1 Drivers Can Learn

Coulthard’s remarks serve as a lesson for current and future F1 drivers. In a sport where teamwork is paramount, raw talent alone isn’t enough. Building relationships, inspiring the team, and showing relentless dedication can turn a talented driver into a multi-time champion.

Raikkonen will always be remembered as a legend of the sport, but as Coulthard suggests, the story of his career is one of what might have been if he had coupled his immense talent with Schumacher’s work ethic and leadership qualities.

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