Kimi Räikkönen, a Finnish racing driver, has amassed a net worth of $250 million. During his prime years, he earned more than $50 million annually, placing him among the highest-paid athletes globally. Known as the “Iceman” for his calm demeanor under pressure and his cool attitude toward media and teammates, Räikkönen became a formidable force in Formula One.
A Successful Formula One Career
Räikkönen is regarded as one of the most successful Finnish drivers in Formula One history, with 21 Grand Prix wins to his name. He raced for several top teams during his career, but his most significant successes came with Ferrari. Outside of F1, he participated in various motorsports, including the World Rally Championship, NASCAR, and snowmobile races.
In September 2021, Räikkönen announced his retirement from Formula One, confirming that the 2021 season would be his last in the sport.
Early Life and Entry into Racing
Born on October 17, 1979, in Espoo, Finland, Kimi began karting at age 10. By 15, he was racing in Monaco, displaying remarkable perseverance, even continuing to race after a broken steering wheel. An accident in his youth damaged his vocal cords, giving him a distinct voice that became a trademark. His early success in prestigious races like the Formula Renault series guaranteed him a future in F1.
Formula One Journey
Räikkönen made his F1 debut with Sauber in 2001 and quickly demonstrated his talent. After a strong 2002 season with McLaren, where he won his first race in 2003, Kimi became a rising star in the sport. In 2007, he joined Ferrari and claimed his first World Drivers’ Championship title. After several years of mixed results, including a brief foray into rallying, Räikkönen returned to F1 with Lotus and then Ferrari, securing solid finishes but never reclaiming his former glory.
Personal Life and Real Estate Investments
Kimi’s personal life includes his marriage to model Minna-Mari Virtanen in 2016, with whom he has two children. As for real estate, Räikkönen’s wealth is reflected in his property investments. He sold a home in Finland for €14.5 million and bought properties in Thailand, Switzerland, and Helsinki, including a lavish $24 million villa in Baar, Switzerland.
Räikkönen’s diverse career and investments reflect his iconic status in motorsport, making him one of the wealthiest figures in the sport.
