Robin Raikkonen joins Red Bull junior team

Robin Raikkonen, the son of 2007 Formula 1 World Champion Kimi, has joined the Red Bull junior team and will become part of its development program in 2027.

The young Finn has been following in his father’s footsteps and karting of a number of years already, with the 11-year-old – who also goes by the nickname ‘Ace’ – tasting success in Rotax and WSK championships. The Raikkonen family was present at the Italian Grand Prix as guests of Red Bull, and it has now been confirmed that Robin has been signed to the team’s junior set-up.

“Robin has already demonstrated exceptional ability in karting,” Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said. “His speed, racecraft and natural talent have established him as one of the most promising young drivers in his age group. At the same time, he impresses with his maturity, his calm approach and his clear focus on driving.

“Our goal is to develop him step by step, without placing any unnecessary pressure on his shoulders. The path through motorsport is a long one, and we will give him the time, support and resources he needs to maximize his potential.

Robin Raikkonen will hope to be the next Red Bull junior to make it to Formula 1. Mark Thompson/Getty Images

“We strongly believe that talent can thrive when supported by the right people, the right culture and the right environment. That is what we are committed to providing Robin as he continues his development. We are very much looking forward to taking the next steps in his journey together with Robin and his family.”

Kimi Raikkonen won 21 grands prix and finished on the podium 103 times before retiring at the end of the 2021 season, and is quoted as suggesting his son had multiple options to consider.

“We are all thrilled and excited that Robin has been chosen to further his racing path as a member of the Red Bull Junior Team,” Raikkonen said. “Laurent and everyone else at Red Bull have been incredibly supportive throughout all our discussions. They offer a compelling and comprehensive program to develop and nurture Robin’s progress over the coming years and provide him with all the experience required to develop his natural talent, which has amply been displayed in all his karting endeavors to date.

“Red Bull’s Junior Team has had years of incredible success. Its alumni include Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen amongst many others. It is thus with great humility that Robin joins this illustrious program, and he will dedicate all his efforts to warrant the trust that Red Bull is placing in him.”