Former F1 Champ Kimi Raikkonen's NASCAR Stint Comes to an Early End

The NASCAR Cup Series debut of former Formula One world champion Kimi Räikkönen wrapped up earlier than expected after a final-stage crash at Watkins Glen International. His day in the No. 91 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet came to an end right before the halfway mark of the race. There, he was shoved up in the bus-stop chicane on Lap 44. The irreparable damage to the No. 91 rendered a disappointing end to Räikkönen’s debut race. He finished 37th.

 “I had a good line there … unfortunately I had no time to react,” Raikkonen commented on his performance. 

Kimi had an impressive 19-year career in the sport before announcing retirement in 2021. He was considered as one of the most unexpected entries at Watkins Glen, all the eyes set on him after the announcement. Given his proven F1 mettle, he was expected to be a major factor.