Red Bull signs 10-year-old Robin Raikkonen as junior driver to follow father Kimi's footsteps

Robin Raikkonen, the 10-year-old son of 2007 Formula 1 world champion Kimi, has been signed to the Red Bull Junior Team, the programme that previously produced Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.

Born on 27 January 2015, Robin has been active in karting since 2022, competing in the Rotax Max Challenge first in Switzerland and then across Europe. He also took part in the WSK Super Master Series last year, in each case racing in age-appropriate categories.

Kimi Raikkonen expressed his enthusiasm for the move, saying the family were “thrilled and excited” by the opportunity. “They offer a compelling and comprehensive programme to develop and nurture Robin’s progress over the coming years,” the former world champion said. “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 programme.”

Red Bull F1 team principal Laurent Mekies described Robin as “one of the most promising young drivers” of his generation, highlighting “his speed, racecraft and natural talent” alongside “his maturity, his calm approach and his clear focus on driving.”

Mekies was careful to temper expectations around the young Finn, stressing a patient approach to his development. “Our goal is to develop him step by step, without placing any unnecessary pressure on his shoulders,” the Frenchman said. “The path through motorsport is a long one, and we will give him the time, support and resources he needs to maximise his potential.”

Robin joins nine other drivers currently in the Red Bull Junior Team. The programme is currently spearheaded by Formula 2 championship leader Nikola Tsolov, who is considered a frontrunner for a Racing Bulls seat in the 2027 F1 season.