Editing Mika Häkkinen (section)

===McLaren (1993–2001)===
{{Main|McLaren}}

====1993====
[[File:Mika Hakkinen in the paddock before the 1993 British Grand Prix (32873463093).jpg|thumb|Häkkinen in the paddock before the [[1993 British Grand Prix]]]]
For [[1993 Formula One season|1993]], Häkkinen joined McLaren, originally as a race driver, although he became the team's official test driver when [[Championship Auto Racing Teams|CART]] driver [[Michael Andretti]] was hired by the team.<ref name="hakkinencontract"/> Apart from regular testing duties, Häkkinen entered two [[Porsche Supercup]] races, held as a support race for the [[1993 Monaco Grand Prix|Monaco Grand Prix]], where he started at pole position and took victory in both races. He was promoted to a Formula One race seat after the [[1993 Italian Grand Prix|Italian Grand Prix]], when Andretti left Formula One. Häkkinen entered the [[1993 Portuguese Grand Prix|Portuguese Grand Prix]] where he out-qualified regular driver [[Ayrton Senna]]. During the race, he retired due to collision with a concrete wall.<ref>{{cite web|last=Saward|first=Joe|title=Interview – Mika Hakkinen|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ft/ft00159.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=1 September 1993|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=3 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140803141256/http://www.grandprix.com/ft/ft00159.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> At the next race held in [[1993 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]], Häkkinen claimed the first podium of his career with a third-place finish,<ref>{{cite web|title=Japanese Grand Prix – facts and figures|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/features/2007/9/6869.html|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Management|date=27 September 2007|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006130630/http://www.formula1.com/news/features/2007/9/6869.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and ended the season when his McLaren car suffered a brake pipe failure in [[1993 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Grand Prix Results: Australian GP, 1993|url=http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr548.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|access-date=6 November 2014|archive-date=23 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723193927/https://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr548.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen concluded the season with 15th in the Drivers' Championship, scoring 4 points.<ref name="MMagBio" /> In December, McLaren confirmed that Häkkinen would remain with the team on a three-year contract from the 1994 season onwards.<ref>{{cite web|last=Allsop|first=Derek|title=Motor Racing: Hakkinen's contract|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/motor-racing-hakkinens-contract-1465278.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220514/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/motor-racing-hakkinens-contract-1465278.html |archive-date=14 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Independent|publisher=Independent Print Limited|date=4 December 1993|access-date=11 September 2014}}</ref>

During 1993, Häkkinen, along with Senna, tested the [[Lamborghini V12|Lamborghini]] [[V12 engine]] in a modified version of the [[McLaren MP4/8]] race car dubbed the "MP4/8B" at both [[Estoril]] and [[Silverstone Circuit|Silverstone]]. Both drivers were impressed with the engine, with Häkkinen reportedly lapping Silverstone some 1.4 seconds faster in the MP4/8B with its V12 engine than he had with the team's race car fitted with the [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] V8.<ref>{{cite web|last=Nyberg|first=Rainer|title=McLaren's brief flirtation with the Chrysler empire|url=http://8w.forix.com/mc-lambo.html|publisher=8w.forix|date=Autumn 2001|access-date=18 November 2014|archive-date=5 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305002925/http://8w.forix.com/mc-lambo.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

====1994====
[[File:Hakkinen Silverstone1994.jpg|thumb|right|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[1994 British Grand Prix]]]]
Häkkinen stayed at McLaren for [[1994 Formula One season|1994]] and was partnered by experienced driver [[Martin Brundle]]. He endured a torrid start: at the first two races of the season, Häkkinen retired as his car developed engine problems in the [[1994 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazilian Grand Prix]] and gearbox issues in the [[1994 Pacific Grand Prix|Pacific Grand Prix]] which included a collision with Senna on the first lap.<ref>{{cite web|title=1994: Brazil: Race|url=http://www.formula1.com/results/season/1994/100/|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Management|access-date=6 November 2014|archive-date=6 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141106111811/http://www.formula1.com/results/season/1994/100/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=1994 Pacific GP|url=http://www.chicanef1.com/racetit.pl?year=1994&gp=Pacific%20GP&r=1|publisher=ChicaneF1|access-date=6 November 2014|archive-date=17 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141017092028/http://www.chicanef1.com/racetit.pl?year=1994&gp=Pacific%20GP&r=1|url-status=live}}</ref> He later reached his first podium finish of the season at the [[1994 San Marino Grand Prix|San Marino Grand Prix]], although he suffered a dip in form as he was forced into consecutive retirements in the next four races.<ref name="MMagBio" />

Häkkinen raced to a further podium finish at the [[1994 British Grand Prix|British Grand Prix]], despite a last-lap collision with Jordan driver [[Rubens Barrichello]] for which he received a one-race ban, suspended for three races.<ref name="interviewhakkinen"/> The ban was enforced after the [[1994 German Grand Prix|German Grand Prix]], where Häkkinen collided with Williams driver [[David Coulthard]] with the Finn's car sliding into another group of cars. He was replaced by [[Philippe Alliot]] for the next race in [[1994 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungary]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diepraam|first=Mattijs|title=Super qualifier gets Peugeot break|url=http://8w.forix.com/alliot.html|publisher=8w.forix|date=June 1998|access-date=31 October 2014|archive-date=3 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103225237/http://8w.forix.com/alliot.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Häkkinen returned for the [[1994 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgian Grand Prix]], initially coming third but was later promoted to second after the disqualification of Benetton driver Michael Schumacher.<ref>{{cite web|title=Grand Prix Results: Belgian GP, 1994|url=http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr559.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|access-date=6 November 2014|archive-date=18 March 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060318032619/http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr559.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He got consecutive 3rd-place podium finishes in the next three races, before rounding off the season by finishing the final two races in [[1994 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]] and [[1994 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]], albeit outside of the points scoring positions. Häkkinen managed a fourth place in the Drivers' Championship, scoring 26 points.<ref name="MMagBio" />

====1995====
[[File:Mika Hakkinen 1995 Britain.jpg|thumb|right|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[1995 British Grand Prix]]]]
Häkkinen remained at McLaren for [[1995 Formula One season|1995]], and was partnered by [[Nigel Mansell]]. During pre-season testing, Häkkinen and teammate Mansell complained the car, the [[McLaren MP4/10]], was not wide enough to fit in, resulting in their hands and elbows striking the sides of the cockpit.<ref>{{cite web|title=McLaren's cockpit cock-up|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00048.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=13 March 1995|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=11 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140611223435/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00048.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Mansell was forced to miss the opening two rounds, so Häkkinen was partnered with [[Mark Blundell]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Allsop|first=Derek|title=Mansell faces retirement after McLaren exit|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/mansell-faces-retirement-after-mclaren-exit-1620932.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220514/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/mansell-faces-retirement-after-mclaren-exit-1620932.html |archive-date=14 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Independent|publisher=Independent Print Limited|date=24 May 1995|access-date=3 September 2014}}</ref>

Häkkinen started off the season by finishing fourth in [[1995 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazil]],<ref name=pg91>{{cite book | chapter = 1995 Grands Prix: Brazilian Grand Prix | last = Henry | first = Alan | author-link = Alan Henry | title = [[Autocourse]] 1995–96 | orig-year = 1995 | publisher = Hazleton Publishing | isbn = 1-874557-36-5 | pages = 91 |date=December 1995}}</ref> and later retired in [[1995 Argentine Grand Prix|Argentina]] due to a collision which punctured his left rear tyre that followed a spin. He took a further points finish with a 5th place at [[1995 San Marino Grand Prix|San Marino]], before suffering from consecutive retirements in the next three races.<ref name="MMagBio" /> For the [[1995 French Grand Prix|French Grand Prix]], McLaren introduced a revised version of their car, the [[McLaren MP4/10B]]. This did not revive Häkkinen's fortunes as he did not finish in the points scoring positions, and later suffered consecutive retirements in the next four races,<ref name="MMagBio" /> but got second place at the [[1995 Italian Grand Prix|Italian Grand Prix]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Herbert's Endurance Pays Off In Italian Grand Prix Victory|url=http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/herberts-endurance-pays-off-in-italian-grand-prix-victory/334728.html|work=The Moscow Times|publisher=Independent Media Sanoma Magazines|date=12 September 1995|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=30 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141030095722/http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/herberts-endurance-pays-off-in-italian-grand-prix-victory/334728.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He was forced to miss the [[1995 Pacific Grand Prix|Pacific Grand Prix]] due to an operation for [[appendicitis]] and was replaced by [[Jan Magnussen]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Magnussen impresses for McLaren|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00336.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=23 October 1995|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=11 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011105245/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00336.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He returned for the [[1995 Japanese Grand Prix|Japanese Grand Prix]], with a second-place finish.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tytler|first=Ewan|title=Suzuka: The Halloween Grand Prix|url=http://atlasf1.autosport.com/99/jpn/preview/tytler.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=27 October 1999|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=10 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210213736/http://atlasf1.autosport.com/99/jpn/preview/tytler.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

At the season finale held in [[1995 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]], Häkkinen's car suffered a tyre failure during the event's first qualifying session on Friday, which resulted in his car becoming airborne and crashing sideways into the crash barrier on the outside of Brewery corner, the fastest corner of the [[Adelaide Street Circuit]], at an estimated speed of 120&nbsp;mph.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00359.html|title=Hakkinen hurt in Adelaide|website=Grandprix.com|access-date=20 March 2021|archive-date=25 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725053457/https://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00359.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The session was suspended with Häkkinen being critically injured due to sustaining a [[skull fracture]], internal bleeding and a blockage of his airway. His life was saved by the efforts of the trackside medical team, including the President of the FIA Institute for Motor Sport Safety, [[Sid Watkins]], and volunteer doctors Jerome Cockings and Steve Lewis,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Hakkinen's future|url=https://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00369.html|website=Grandprix.com|access-date=6 May 2020|archive-date=25 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725062603/https://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00369.html|url-status=live}}</ref> from the [[Royal Adelaide Hospital]]. Cockings performed an emergency [[tracheotomy]] on the track, delivering oxygen to enable Häkkinen to breathe.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Taylor |first1=Simon |title=Lunch with... Mika Häkkinen |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/september-2010/80/lunch-with-mika-hakkinen |website=Motor Sport Magazine |date=7 July 2014 |access-date=6 January 2022 |archive-date=5 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220105205404/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/september-2010/80/lunch-with-mika-hakkinen |url-status=live }}</ref> Watkins later arrived in the medical car, allowing the doctors to continue, restarting Häkkinen's heart twice.<ref>{{cite web |title=Dr. Watkins, Guardian Angel |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/dr_watkins_guardian_angel_feature+t-cigars_and_scotch+page-4.html |author=Jerry Garrett |date=October 2002 |work=CarAndDriver.com |publisher=Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209085359/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/dr_watkins_guardian_angel_feature+t-cigars_and_scotch+page-4.html |archive-date=9 December 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Walsh |first1=Fergal |title=The second chance: Mika Hakkinen – The day two luckily placed doctors saved the soon to be champion |url=https://www.gptoday.net/en/news/f1/243889/the-second-chance-mika-hakkinen-the-day-two-luckily-placed-doctors-saved-the-soon-to-be-champion |website=GPToday.net |access-date=6 January 2022 |archive-date=6 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106150406/https://www.gptoday.net/en/news/f1/243889/the-second-chance-mika-hakkinen-the-day-two-luckily-placed-doctors-saved-the-soon-to-be-champion |url-status=live }}</ref> Häkkinen was immediately transported by ambulance to the nearby Royal Adelaide Hospital which was located about half a kilometre from the circuit. There he remained in a critical condition under care of the Trauma Service, the Neurosurgical Unit, and the Intensive Care Unit and remained in the hospital for approximately two months. He eventually made a remarkable recovery.<ref>{{cite book |last=Tremayne |first=David |author2=Mark Hughes |title=The Concise Encyclopedia of Formula One |year=2001 |publisher=Parragon |isbn=0-7525-6557-5 }}</ref> As an expression of thanks for the elite class medical attention he received, Häkkinen donated a substantial undisclosed sum of money to help build a much-needed helipad for The Royal Adelaide Hospital, and made a special trip to Australia for the official opening ceremony in March 1997.<ref>{{cite web |title=Urban Exploring: Gilligan's Island |url=http://www.awesomeadelaide.com/disused-abandoned-buildings-ruins/urban-exploring-gilligans-island/ |publisher=Awesome Adelaide |date=1 October 2019 |access-date=7 December 2019 |archive-date=6 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206145641/http://www.awesomeadelaide.com/disused-abandoned-buildings-ruins/urban-exploring-gilligans-island/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Häkkinen finished the 1995 season seventh in the Drivers' Championship, with 17 points.<ref name="MMagBio" />

====1996====
[[File:Mika Häkkinen, Johnny Herbert - Imola 1996.jpg|thumb|Häkkinen and [[Johnny Herbert]] during free practice of [[1996 San Marino Grand Prix]]]]
The [[1996 Formula One season|1996 season]] was the first in which Häkkinen was the more experienced driver in his team and was partnered by David Coulthard. Häkkinen was confident going into the season and set himself a target of winning races.<ref>{{cite web|title=New McLaren|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1996/076.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=11 February 1996|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006114955/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1996/076.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> To ensure his fitness, Häkkinen spent time training in [[Bali]] and in February, McLaren conducted a secret test at the [[Paul Ricard Circuit]]. In the event that Häkkinen was not prepared, McLaren had Magnussen to replace him should the need arise.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen tests at Ricard|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00463.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=5 February 1996|access-date=18 November 2014|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924104421/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00463.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The season started well for Häkkinen: He earned consecutive points-scoring positions in the opening two rounds, before he suffered his first retirement of the season in [[1996 Argentine Grand Prix|Argentina]] as his car developed a throttle problem.<ref>{{cite web|title=Warming up; Hill dominates again|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1996/121.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=7 April 1996|access-date=10 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006074623/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1996/121.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> He later finished the next two races, albeit outside of the points scoring positions, before returning consecutive finishes inside of the points in the following four races.<ref name="MMagBio" />

In the following race held in [[1996 British Grand Prix|Britain]] where McLaren brought a revised version of the car, their [[McLaren MP4/11B]], Häkkinen reached his first podium finish of the season with third place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Henry|first=Alan|title=McLaren slide into the depths|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jul/08/formulaone.formulaone20021|work=The Telegraph|publisher=Telegraph Media Group|date=8 July 2002|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=9 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140909171752/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jul/08/formulaone.formulaone20021|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he retired from the next race held in [[1996 German Grand Prix|Germany]] due to a gearbox failure.<ref>{{cite web|last=Waller|first=Toby|title=Round 11: 'It was always going to be close'|url=http://atlasf1.autosport.com/96/ger/waller2.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=30 July 1996|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303231420/http://atlasf1.autosport.com/96/ger/waller2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This marked a turning point in Häkkinen's season as he finished the next three races, including consecutive third-place finishes in [[1996 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgium]] and [[1996 Italian Grand Prix|Italy]].<ref name="MMagBio" /> In September, it was announced that Häkkinen would remain at McLaren for 1997,<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen stays at McLaren|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00766.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=16 September 1996|access-date=10 September 2014|archive-date=25 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140925120742/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00766.html|url-status=live}}</ref> having previously been linked to Williams and [[Benetton Formula|Benetton]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen to Benetton?|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00648.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=17 June 1996|access-date=10 September 2014|archive-date=16 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016042101/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns00648.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He retired from the penultimate round in [[1996 Portuguese Grand Prix|Portugal]] resulting a collision with teammate Coulthard, damaging Häkkinen's front wing and eventually led to his retirement on the 52nd lap of the race.<ref>{{cite web|title=Grand Prix Results: Portuguese GP, 1996|url=http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr596.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=22 September 1996|access-date=10 September 2014|archive-date=13 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813053727/http://grandprix.com/gpe/rr596.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He rounded off the season with a third-place finish in season finale held in [[1996 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]]. Häkkinen finished the season fifth in the Drivers' Championship, scoring 31 points.<ref name="MMagBio" />

====1997====
[[File:McLaren Mercedes MP4-12 1997.jpg|thumb|left|The [[McLaren MP4/12]], driven by Häkkinen in 1997]]
Häkkinen again remained at McLaren for [[1997 Formula One season|1997]] and Coulthard remained his teammate. Häkkinen's season got off to a good start: In the season-opening race in [[1997 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]], he drove up to the third position and later scored further consecutive finishes inside of the points scoring positions in the next three races.<ref name="MMagBio" /> He suffered his first retirement of the season at the [[1997 Monaco Grand Prix|Monaco Grand Prix]] when he was involved in a collision with Benetton driver [[Jean Alesi]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Grand Prix Results: Monaco GP, 1997|url=http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr602.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=11 May 1997|access-date=1 November 2014|archive-date=8 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408042130/http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr602.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen later took ninth position at the [[1997 Spanish Grand Prix|Spanish Grand Prix]],<ref name="MMagBio" /> but later suffered three consecutive retirements in the next three races—a collision with Ferrari driver [[Eddie Irvine]] in [[1997 Canadian Grand Prix|Canada]] and engine failures in [[1997 French Grand Prix|France]] and [[1997 British Grand Prix|Britain]]. At the latter race, he had seemed set for his first win, but his engine blew while he was holding off eventual winner [[Jacques Villeneuve]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Grand Prix Results: British GP, 1997|url=http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr606.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=13 July 1997|access-date=30 October 2014|archive-date=13 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813091140/http://www.grandprix.com/gpe/rr606.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Häkkinen secured another podium finish with third place in [[1997 German Grand Prix|Germany]] and later retired from an hydraulic problem in [[1997 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungary]]. He later secured third place in the [[1997 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgian Grand Prix]] but was later disqualified when it was discovered that his car used an illegal type of fuel during the event.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sport: Formula 1 Race summaries: 1997 season|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/62492.stm#belgium|work=BBC News|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=5 March 1998|access-date=10 September 2014|archive-date=25 May 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060525190945/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/62492.stm#belgium|url-status=live}}</ref> He secured a ninth-place finish in [[1997 Italian Grand Prix|Italy]] and later suffered from consecutive retirements in the next two races—engine failures in the [[1997 Austrian Grand Prix|Austrian Grand Prix]] and the [[1997 Luxembourg Grand Prix|Luxembourg Grand Prix]] while leading both races.<ref name="atlasf1oct1998">{{cite web|last=Kopu|first=Ville|title=Mika Hakkinen: Count your Blessings and Ask for More|url=http://atlasf1.autosport.com/98/jpn/preview/kopu.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=28 October 1998|access-date=27 September 2014|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303212104/http://atlasf1.autosport.com/98/jpn/preview/kopu.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen ended the season with a fourth position in the penultimate round in [[1997 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]] and raced to his first Formula One victory at the season closing [[1997 European Grand Prix|European Grand Prix]].<ref name="MMagBio" /> Häkkinen ended the season sixth in the Drivers' Championship, with 27 points.<ref name="MMagBio" />

====1998====
[[File:Mika Hakkinen in the 1998 Spanish Grand Prix.jpg|thumb|right|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[1998 Spanish Grand Prix]], where he claimed his third win in the first five races of the season]]
Häkkinen remained at McLaren for [[1998 Formula One season|1998]], partnered by Coulthard. Häkkinen was confident going about the challenge for the World Championship into the season, citing the involvement of technical director [[Adrian Newey]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Stewart unveil the SF2; Minor problems for Ferrari; Coulthard: we are looking strong|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1998/601.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=13 January 1998|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006075339/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1998/601.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The season started off with controversy in [[1998 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]] when teammate Coulthard let Häkkinen past to win the race. Häkkinen had earlier been called into the pit lane by an engineer by mistake. Coulthard later revealed a pre-race agreement by the team that whoever led into the first corner on the first lap would be allowed to win the race.<ref>{{cite web|title=Protest lodged over Hakkinen win|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/63737.stm|work=BBC News|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=9 March 1998|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=30 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830202625/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/63737.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite this, Häkkinen took back-to-back victories by winning the next race in [[1998 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazil]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen ends weekend on a high (Brazilian GP)|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1998/658.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=29 March 1998|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006090511/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1998/658.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> He maintained his good form at the [[1998 Argentine Grand Prix|Argentine Grand Prix]] where he finished second, although he retired from the [[1998 San Marino Grand Prix|San Marino Grand Prix]] when his car's gearbox failed. However, Häkkinen managed consecutive victories in the next two rounds, which was followed by a retirement from the race in [[1998 Canadian Grand Prix|Canada]] as his car suffered another gearbox failure.<ref>{{cite web|title=Montreal 1998 – carnage in Canada|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/features/2005/6/3145.html|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Management|date=11 June 2005|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=9 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080709053256/http://www.formula1.com/news/features/2005/6/3145.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Häkkinen followed this up by taking consecutive podiums in the next two rounds—third in [[1998 French Grand Prix|France]] and second in [[1998 British Grand Prix|Britain]]. He managed further consecutive victories in the next two rounds, and followed this up with a sixth-place finish in [[1998 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungary]].<ref name="MMagBio" /> In August, it was announced that Häkkinen and Coulthard would be retained for 1999.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen, Coulthard and Irvine confirmed for 1999|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns01669.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=3 August 1998|access-date=18 November 2014|archive-date=26 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426233736/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns01669.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen retired from the following race held in [[1998 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgium]] when Ferrari driver Michael Schumacher collided with the Finn and was also hit by [[Sauber]] driver [[Johnny Herbert]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Tibbals|first=Geoff|title=Motor Racing's Strangest Races: Extraordinary But True Stories from Over a Century of Motor Racing|publisher=Anova Books|year=2013|isbn=978-1909396289}}</ref> He later managed a fourth position in [[1998 Italian Grand Prix|Italy]] despite suffering from brake problems resulting from a spin.<ref>{{cite web|title=Schumacher wins Italian GP|url=http://old.chronicle.augusta.com/stories/1998/09/14/oth_238991.shtml|work=Augusta Chronicle|date=14 September 1998|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006101425/http://old.chronicle.augusta.com/stories/1998/09/14/oth_238991.shtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> Häkkinen finished the season by taking victory in the final two rounds at the [[1998 Luxembourg Grand Prix|Luxembourg Grand Prix]] and the [[1998 Japanese Grand Prix|Japanese Grand Prix]], which ensured he took enough points to clinch the 1998 World Championship, with 100 points, ahead of nearest rival Schumacher.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hakkinen roars to world crown|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=437&dat=19981101&id=MLUpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=EzIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5914,320727|work=The Nation|publisher=The Nation Company, L.P.|date=1 November 1998|page=A16|access-date=8 October 2016|archive-date=25 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725154100/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=437&dat=19981101&id=MLUpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=EzIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5914,320727|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen was awarded the [[Autosport Awards|Autosport International Racing Driver Award]] for 1998.<ref>{{cite web|title=UK: Annual Autosport Awards Ceremony|url=http://www.itnsource.com/shotlist//RTV/1998/12/07/812060014/?s=*Z|work=ITN Source|publisher=Independent Television News|date=7 December 1998|access-date=17 November 2014|archive-date=29 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129025745/http://www.itnsource.com/shotlist//RTV/1998/12/07/812060014/?s=*Z|url-status=live}}</ref> He was also named the [[Finnish Sports Personality of the Year]] by journalists.<ref>{{cite web|last=Heinonen|first=Jussi|title=Formulaväki yllättyi Vuoden urheilija -valinnasta.|url=http://www.iltalehti.fi/urheilu/200712197001574_ur.shtm|trans-title=Formula Infantry surprised by the athlete selection.|work=Iltalehti|publisher=Alma Media|date=19 December 2007|access-date=17 November 2014}}{{dead link|date=February 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> The Finnish Post Office issued stamps to commemorate Häkkinen's World Championship in January 1999.<ref>{{cite web|title=Special Stamp for Mika Häkkinen|url=http://www.pmk.posti.fi/emerkit1999/merkit/hakkinen.htm|publisher=pmk.posti.fi|access-date=17 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010718010101/http://www.pmk.posti.fi/emerkit1999/merkit/hakkinen.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 July 2001}}</ref>

====1999====
[[File:Mika Hakkinen 1999 Canada.jpg|thumb|right|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[1999 Canadian Grand Prix]], where he drove to his third victory of the season]]
Häkkinen remained at McLaren for [[1999 Formula One season|1999]], with Coulthard partnering him for the upcoming season. The team suffered problems with their car, the [[McLaren MP4/14]], during pre-season testing, resulting in a lack of preparation. Despite these setbacks, Häkkinen was confident going into the season, saying: "I've gained confidence and experience and am more relaxed. With this title I no longer have to tell myself every morning I can win, to put pressure on myself."<ref name="hakkinen99">{{cite web|last=Tytler|first=Ewan|title=Deconstructing Mika: What Happened at McLaren in 99?|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/99/jpn/tytler.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=3 November 1999|access-date=5 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006071609/http://www.atlasf1.com/99/jpn/tytler.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

At the opening round in [[1999 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]], Häkkinen was forced into retiring as his car developed a throttle issue.<ref name="hakkinen99"/> However, he managed his first victory of the season in [[1999 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazil]], despite his car developing a gearbox problem early in the race.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen takes Brazilian Grand Prix|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/316816.stm|work=BBC News|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=28 April 1999|access-date=5 September 2014|archive-date=30 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200530100032/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/sport/formula_1/316816.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen retired from the race in [[1999 San Marino Grand Prix|San Marino]] when he collided with a barrier while leading.<ref>{{cite web|title=San Marino GP: Hakkinen out|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/4944|work=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Publications|access-date=3 May 2015|date=2 May 1999|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924123413/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/4944|url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[1999 Monaco Grand Prix|Monaco Grand Prix]], Häkkinen finished in third place, having slid on oil left on the track surface in the race. He followed up the results by having consecutive victories in the races held in [[1999 Spanish Grand Prix|Spain]] and [[1999 Canadian Grand Prix|Canada]]. Häkkinen took a second-place finish in [[1999 French Grand Prix|France]], and was forced into another retirement in [[1999 British Grand Prix|Britain]], as a result of a wheel failure.<ref name="hakkinen99"/> During the [[1999 Austrian Grand Prix|Austrian Grand Prix]], Häkkinen who started from [[pole position]], was hit by Coulthard from behind and rejoined at the back of the field. Häkkinen eventually finished in 3rd place.<ref>{{cite web|author=ESPNF1Staff|title=Hakkinen edges Irvine to claim back-to-back titles|url=http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/11622.html#KDpjg2e12UQjI5iU.99|work=ESPN.co.uk|publisher=ESPN Sports Media|date=1 January 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006083937/http://en.espnf1.com/f1/motorsport/story/11622.html#KDpjg2e12UQjI5iU.99|url-status=live}}</ref>

During the [[1999 German Grand Prix|German Grand Prix]], it was announced that Häkkinen would remain at McLaren for 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen and Coulthard Stay at McLaren|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1999/aug/1504.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=1 August 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=23 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923175941/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/1999/aug/1504.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen encountered further bad fortunes in the race when his car's right rear tyre exploded at high speed, forcing his car into a 360° spin before resting on a tyre wall.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lupini|first=Michele|title=Grand Prix of Germany Review|url=http://atlasf1.autosport.com/99/ger/lupini.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publication|date=1 August 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001714/http://atlasf1.autosport.com/99/ger/lupini.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He managed his fourth victory of the year at [[1999 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungary]],<ref>{{cite web|last=Spurgeon|first=Brad|title=AUTO RACING; Hakkinen Leads Team To 1–2 Finish In Hungary|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/16/sports/auto-racing-hakkinen-leads-team-to-1-2-finish-in-hungary.html|work=The New York Times|date=16 August 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006100643/http://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/16/sports/auto-racing-hakkinen-leads-team-to-1-2-finish-in-hungary.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and followed up the result with a second place in [[1999 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgium]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Coulthard wins at Spa|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/433080.stm|work=BBC News|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=30 August 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=2 January 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030102082725/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/formula_1/433080.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen retired from the following race held in [[1999 Italian Grand Prix|Italy]], due to a spin while leading the race.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen spins Frentzen into title picture|url=https://www.espn.com/auto/formulaone/news/1999/0912/53364.html|work=ESPN.com|publisher=ESPN Inc.|date=16 September 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006102445/https://espn.go.com/auto/formulaone/news/1999/0912/53364.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He finished further with fifth place at the [[1999 European Grand Prix|European Grand Prix]], and achieved a podium finish with third place in [[1999 Malaysian Grand Prix|Malaysia]].<ref name="MMagBio" /> At the season finale held in [[1999 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]], Häkkinen took victory,<ref>{{cite web|title=PLUS: AUTO RACING – JAPANESE GRAND PRIX; Hakkinen Reclaims Formula One Title|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/01/sports/plus-auto-racing-japanese-grand-prix-hakkinen-reclaims-formula-one-title.html|work=The New York Times|date=1 November 1999|access-date=7 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006083200/http://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/01/sports/plus-auto-racing-japanese-grand-prix-hakkinen-reclaims-formula-one-title.html|url-status=live}}</ref> which ensured he took enough points to win the 1999 World Championship, with 76 points, ahead of nearest rival [[Eddie Irvine]].<ref>{{cite web|title=1999: All Drivers |url=http://www.formula1.com/results/driver/1999/ |work=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Management |access-date=7 September 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141120050531/http://www.formula1.com/results/driver/1999/ |archive-date=20 November 2014 }}</ref> In November, Häkkinen was ranked seventh in the [[Reuters]] Sports Personality of the Year Poll scoring 46 out of a possible 260 points.<ref>{{cite web|agency=Reuters|title=Armstrong wins Reuters sports personality of the year poll|url=http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/default.aspx?pageid=438&n=armstrong-wins-reuters-sports-personality-of-the-year-poll-1999-11-27|work=Hürriyet Daily News|publisher=Doğan Media Group|date=27 November 1999|access-date=10 November 2014|archive-date=10 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141110081543/http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/default.aspx?pageid=438&n=armstrong-wins-reuters-sports-personality-of-the-year-poll-1999-11-27|url-status=live}}</ref> He was also awarded his second consecutive Autosport International Racing Driver Award for 1999.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=17 December 2009|title=Autosport Awards: Hall of Fame|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/8281|work=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=8 December 1999|archive-date=23 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423173136/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/8281|url-status=live}}</ref> In November, Häkkinen was announced as one of the seven men shortlisted for the Finnish Sports Personality of the Year.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen voten Sportsman of the Year in HS straw poll|url=http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/today/021199-06.html|work=Helsingin Sanomat|publisher=Sanoma|date=2 November 1999|access-date=17 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129065646/http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/today/021199-06.html|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> At the awards ceremony on 28 December, Häkkinen was awarded second place behind skier [[Mika Myllylä]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen Loses to Skiing Champion|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2000/jan/1859.htm|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=4 January 2000|access-date=17 November 2014|archive-date=29 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129020107/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2000/jan/1859.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

====2000====
[[File:Mika Häkkinen 2000 United States Grand Prix.jpg|thumb|right|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[2000 United States Grand Prix]], where an engine problem cost him the title lead to eventual champion [[Michael Schumacher]]]]
For [[2000 Formula One season|2000]], Häkkinen set himself new limits along with physical and psychological preparations for the upcoming season. He also believed that he along with Schumacher and Coulthard would be the key drivers of 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen gears up for tough 2000|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/1198/|publisher=gpupdate.com|date=28 January 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006115245/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/1198/|url-status=live}}</ref> He endured a bad start: at the opening round in [[2000 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]], both McLaren cars retired with engine failure after completing less than half of the race distance; and in the following race in [[2000 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazil]], Häkkinen was forced into retirement when his car's oil pressure became problematic.<ref>{{cite web|title=Schumacher perfect so far in 2000|url=https://www.espn.com/auto/formulaone/news/2000/0326/447410.html|work=ESPN.com|publisher=ESPN Inc|date=28 March 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006174632/http://espn.go.com/auto/formulaone/news/2000/0326/447410.html|url-status=live}}</ref> However, this marked a turning point as Häkkinen took consecutive second-place finishes in the next two rounds,<ref name="MMagBio" /> and later reached his first victory of the season in [[2000 Spanish Grand Prix|Spain]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen leads McLaren's 1–2 finish|url=https://www.espn.com/auto/formulaone/news/2000/0507/520619.html|work=ESPN.com|publisher=ESPN Inc|date=7 May 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006073236/http://espn.go.com/auto/formulaone/news/2000/0507/520619.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Häkkinen finished in second position at the [[2000 European Grand Prix|European Grand Prix]], having traded the lead position with Schumacher throughout the race.<ref>{{cite web|title=Home glory for Schumacher|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/motorsport/757902.stm|work=BBC News|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=21 May 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=4 February 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040204031357/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/motorsport/757902.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> He followed up the result by taking sixth place at [[2000 Monaco Grand Prix|Monaco]], fourth in [[2000 Canadian Grand Prix|Canada]] and a podium finish with second position in [[2000 French Grand Prix|France]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Baker|first=Andrew|title=French Grand Prix: Coulthard makes his move|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/4755931/French-Grand-Prix-Coulthard-makes-his-move.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/4755931/French-Grand-Prix-Coulthard-makes-his-move.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Telegraph|publisher=Telegraph Media Group|date=3 July 2000|access-date=8 September 2014}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The day after the French Grand Prix, it was announced that Häkkinen would remain at McLaren for 2001.<ref>{{cite web|title=McLaren confirms Hakkinen and Coulthard for 2001|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02504.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=3 July 2000|access-date=11 September 2014|archive-date=18 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018053900/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02504.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen won the following race held in [[2000 Austrian Grand Prix|Austria]], although his team were stripped of constructors' points due to a missing seal on the electronic control unit in Häkkinen's car.<ref>{{cite web|title=McLaren disappointed at FIA ruling, but will not appeal|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02602.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=26 July 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006101207/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02602.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He took another podium finish with a second place in [[2000 German Grand Prix|Germany]], and later had another victory at the [[2000 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungarian Grand Prix]] where he took the lead of the World Drivers' Championship from Schumacher.<ref>{{cite web|author=CBSNews.com Staff|title=Hakkinen Takes F-1 Lead|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hakkinen-takes-f-1-lead/|work=CBS News|publisher=CBS Corporation|date=13 August 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006114948/http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hakkinen-takes-f-1-lead/|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen raced to his second consecutive victory in [[2000 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgium]], which included a simultaneous pass on Schumacher and [[Ricardo Zonta]] in the ''Kemmel straight''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen wins Belgian thriller|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/898476.stm|work=BBC Sport|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=27 August 2000|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404083924/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/898476.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Häkkinen later took second place in [[2000 Italian Grand Prix|Italy]],<ref>{{cite web|last=Baker|first=Andrew|title=Italian Grand Prix: Emotional Schumacher closes gap|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/4771101/Italian-Grand-Prix-Emotional-Schumacher-closes-gap.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/4771101/Italian-Grand-Prix-Emotional-Schumacher-closes-gap.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Telegraph|publisher=Telegraph Media Group|date=11 September 2000|access-date=9 September 2014}}{{cbignore}}</ref> and retired with an engine failure in the [[2000 United States Grand Prix|United States]].<ref>{{cite web|title=McLaren Lick Wounds after Double Disappointment|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2000/sep/report.php/id/2971/.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=24 September 2000|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=23 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923202006/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2000/sep/report.php/id/2971/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> He rounded off the year with a second place in [[2000 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]] where he conceded the World Championship to Schumacher,<ref>{{cite web|title=Schumacher is World Champion|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02930.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=9 October 2000|access-date=9 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006091219/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns02930.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and held fourth position in the season closing race held in [[2000 Malaysian Grand Prix|Malaysia]].<ref name="MMagBio" />

====2001====
[[File:Mika Hakkinen 2001 Canada.jpg|thumb|Häkkinen driving for McLaren at the [[2001 Canadian Grand Prix]], where he reached his first podium finish of 2001]]
For [[2001 Formula One season|2001]], Häkkinen pledged to make a challenge for the World Championship, citing inspiration from the birth of his son Hugo.<ref>{{cite web|last=Benson|first=Andrew|title=Hakkinen and son hope for boost|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/1157644.stm|work=BBC Sport|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=7 February 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021123162155/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/1157644.stm|archive-date=23 November 2002}}</ref> He also added that he was under less pressure to compete, saying that results over the previous year increased his desire to win.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen hopes to feel less pressure in 2001|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns03812.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=27 February 2001|access-date=16 September 2014|archive-date=24 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524111731/https://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns03812.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The season started badly for Häkkinen, as he was forced into retirement in the opening round held in [[2001 Australian Grand Prix|Australia]] due to a failure with his car's suspension resulting in his car spinning violently into a tyre barrier.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen Crashes Out of the Australian GP|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/mar/report.php/id/3767/.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=4 March 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006102144/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/mar/report.php/id/3767/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The McLaren cars were off the pace in [[2001 Malaysian Grand Prix|Malaysia]], with Häkkinen managing to end at the 6th place.<ref>{{cite web|title=McLaren down in the dumps|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns03909.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=19 March 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006173039/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns03909.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He retired from the following race in [[2001 Brazilian Grand Prix|Brazil]] when his car stalled on the starting grid,<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen: Title hopes are still alive|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport/hi/english/motorsport/formula_one/newsid_1273000/1273573.stm|work=BBC Sport|publisher=8 September 2014|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=16 April 2001|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010416234149/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport/hi/english/motorsport/formula_one/newsid_1273000/1273573.stm|url-status=dead}}</ref> Further points came at the [[2001 San Marino Grand Prix|San Marino Grand Prix]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Satisfied Hakkinen Praises Ralf|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/apr/report.php/id/4131/.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=15 April 2001|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=23 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923202014/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/apr/report.php/id/4131/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> At the [[2001 Spanish Grand Prix|Spanish Grand Prix]], Häkkinen looked on course to win his first victory of the season, until the final lap of the race, when his car was hampered with a clutch failure and was classified ninth.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen left to curse his luck|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/1303390.stm|work=BBC Sport|publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation|date=29 April 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=26 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726104606/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/1303390.stm|url-status=live}}</ref>

He suffered further consecutive retirements in [[2001 Austrian Grand Prix|Austria]] where he stalled his car on the starting grid,<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen to Blame for Stalling in Austria|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/may/report.php/id/4402/.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=15 May 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=23 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923202111/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/may/report.php/id/4402/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> and [[2001 Monaco Grand Prix|Monaco]] where his car's steering failed after fifteen laps of the race.<ref>{{cite web|author=Atlas F1|title=Michael Schumacher Wins his Fifth Monaco GP|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/atlasf1-report.php/id/4506/|work=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=27 May 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006122015/http://www.autosport.com/news/atlasf1-report.php/id/4506/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the following race held in [[2001 Canadian Grand Prix|Canada]], Häkkinen took his first podium of the season with a third-place finish.<ref>{{cite web|title=Häkkinen finally makes the podium in Canadian GP|url=http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/news.asp?id=20010611IE9|work=Helsingin Sanomat|publisher=Sanoma|date=11 June 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006090135/http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/news.asp?id=20010611IE9|archive-date=6 October 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> He finished sixth at the [[2001 European Grand Prix|European Grand Prix]], and was unable to start the [[2001 French Grand Prix|French Grand Prix]] as his car developed a gearbox problem.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen retirement decision in the balance|url=http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns04432.html|work=GrandPrix.com|publisher=Inside F1, Inc.|date=2 July 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006184652/http://www.grandprix.com/ns/ns04432.html|url-status=live}}</ref> However, this marked a brief turning point for Häkkinen as he gained a victory in the [[2001 British Grand Prix|British Grand Prix]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen wins British GP|url=http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/MoreSport/Hakkinen-wins-British-GP-20010715|work=News24|publisher=Nasper|date=15 July 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006090425/http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/MoreSport/Hakkinen-wins-British-GP-20010715|url-status=live}}</ref> He was forced into another retirement in [[2001 German Grand Prix|Germany]] when his engine failed,<ref>{{cite web|title=Both Finns fail to finish at Hockenheim F1 Grand Prix|url=http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/news.asp?id=20010730IE3|work=Helsingin Sanomat|publisher=Sanoma|date=30 July 2001|access-date=2 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141102101306/http://www2.hs.fi/english/archive/news.asp?id=20010730IE3|archive-date=2 November 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> later managing fifth position in [[2001 Hungarian Grand Prix|Hungary]] and fourth place in [[2001 Belgian Grand Prix|Belgium]].<ref name="MMagBio" />

Before the [[2001 Italian Grand Prix|Italian Grand Prix]], Häkkinen announced that he would be on a sabbatical for the 2002 season, citing the reason to spend more time with his family.<ref name="hsfi-retirement">{{cite web|last1=Uusitupa|first1=Ismo|title=Mika Häkkinen paljastaa: paluu F1-sirkukseen kariutui McLarenin surkeaan autoon|url=http://www.hs.fi/urheilu/art-2000005327322.html|website=Helsingin Sanomat|date=15 August 2017|access-date=15 August 2017|archive-date=26 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726104521/https://www.hs.fi/urheilu/art-2000005327322.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His seat was taken by fellow countryman [[Kimi Räikkönen]] in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hakkinen takes a break from F1|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/3012825/Hakkinen-takes-a-break-from-F1.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/3012825/Hakkinen-takes-a-break-from-F1.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|work=The Telegraph|publisher=Telegraph Media Group|date=14 September 2001|access-date=8 September 2014}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Häkkinen later stated that fear after crashes during practice for the 1995 Australian Grand Prix and the 2001 Australian Grand Prix as well as a loss of a desire to compete for race victories were factors.<ref>{{cite web|title=Fear made Hakkinen quit|url=http://www.itv-f1.com/news/news_story.php3?mediaid=7793|work=[[ITV-F1]]|publisher=[[ITV plc]]|date=15 October 2001|access-date=14 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011015235718/http://www.itv-f1.com/news/news_story.php3?mediaid=7793|archive-date=15 October 2001}}</ref> He was forced into another retirement during the race due to a gearbox issue. He raced to his final victory of his career in the [[2001 United States Grand Prix|United States]] despite incurring a grid penalty,<ref>{{cite web|last=Henry|first=Alan|title=Hakkinen charges back from pit-lane penalty|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2001/oct/01/formulaone.formulaone2001|work=The Guardian|publisher=Guardian News and Media|date=1 October 2001|access-date=8 September 2014|archive-date=26 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726104600/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2001/oct/01/formulaone.formulaone2001|url-status=live}}</ref> and ended the season with a fourth-place finish in [[2001 Japanese Grand Prix|Japan]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Thankful Hakkinen Ready for F1 Break|url=http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/oct/report.php/id/5906/.html|work=Atlas F1|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=14 October 2001|access-date=4 October 2014|archive-date=28 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028195020/http://www.atlasf1.com/news/2001/oct/report.php/id/5906/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Häkkinen finished the season fifth in the Drivers' Championship, with 37 points.<ref name=MMagBio/>