Lotus F1 Felt Kimi Raikkonen “Was Being Selfish” After Infamous Radio Bust-up in India

Kimi Raikkonen announced last month that he will continue to race for Alfa Romeo next season. The team will feature the same driver lineup of Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi.

While in conversation on the F1: Beyond The Grid podcast, Alan Permane shared his experience of working in Formula 1 for 30 years. The Renault stalwart discusses stars, success, and struggles through his Formula 1 career.

In 2013, Kimi Raikkonen was driving alongside Romain Grosjean for Lotus F1 team. During the race, there was an unpleasant radio conversation between Raikkonen and Permane.”

Permane wanted Kimi Raikkonen to give way to Grosjean and asked Raikkonen to get out of the way. Raikkonen did not take to the message kindly and responded that he will do it once he gets the chance. Permane was asked about his relationship with Kimi Raikkonen on the podcast.

READ MORE- Kimi Raikkonen Announces He’s Here to Stay in the Coolest Possible Way

Permane clarifies that he and Kimi Raikkonen are civil at the paddock

Permane pointed out that Kimi Raikkonen does not like the media much. However, he is a completely normal and a great guy to talk with.

He said, “He is really just completely normal chatty. I remember Kimi phoning me during Christmas week on year saying how are you? How’s Christmas, how’s the family and that sort of things.”

However, the radiogate incident was not easy to pass by. He pointed out, “Since then things were a little bit frosty and again it’s difficult for him to accept the driver coming up behind him was much much much quicker and was heading for the podium.”

Grosjean eventually finished that race on the podium. “But I think at the time there was some frustration and a feeling that Kimi was being selfish and wasn’t putting the team where he could have put the team,” he further added.

Permane explained that they are not the best of friends. However, he pointed out, “It’s fine to stop and say hello at the paddock and be civil.”

Raikkonen is currently standing at P16 with just 4 points under his belt. Over the last couple of races, the Finn had shown the potential of a better finish. Hopefully, he will be able to put up another show during the next weekend and score some important points for the team.