Kimi’s thirst for glory cost Ferrari

a pitstop, was instructed to hold Kimi behind, and this he did loyally while Hamilton saved his own tyres and readied for attack. It was a Mercedes masterclass in sandwiching a Ferrari, and with Vettel relegated to the back of the pack, they executed this to perfection.

This season, Ferrari has uncharacteristically shied away from team orders, even letting Raikkonen finish ahead of Vettel in Austria, when a swap was expected — but it may be time for a frank discussion about the need for a World Championship outweighing the need for equal opportunities.

With the benefit of hindsight, Ferrari should have asked Raikkonen to hold Hamilton right from the start while Vettel roared into the distance. Having Vettel in the lead would immediately pressure Hamilton and, if all went according to plan, Vettel and Raikkonen could even swap places at the very end. Instead, we had Raikkonen go at it — and fail.

I believe Ferrari’s behaviour this season may indicate the Finn’s possible desire to hang up his scarlet shoes. Despite driving better than he has in years, he may not want a contract extension and may instead be hunting a blaze of glory.

Monza brought Raikkonen heartbreakingly close to that hurrah, but it was not to be. Everybody loves Raikkonen, but — as we should know from the man who leads America and the man who leads India — the one with the popular vote doesn’t always win.