Ferrari driver Kimi Raikkonen has become Finland's Ambassador for Sport following a gala event this week in Helsinki.
He received the title from Finnish Prime Minister Juha Sipila after his presence at the gala, according to a Ferrari statement, was kept secret until the last possible moment. It is not entirely clear what Raikkonen's new role involves, and judging by his acceptance speech he was as surprised by the news as the rest of Finland.
"I'm not that used to making formal speeches," he said. "But I would like to wish all the best to the winners in every category, as well as those who missed out on the prizes this year.
"I would stress how important it has been in my case to have the support of my family and help from trustworthy colleagues and the people within the Ferrari team, with whom I have worked for so many years now."
Raikkonen will continue in his day job on February 24 when Ferrari launches its 2017 car.