Eleven-year-old son of world champion Ferrari driver signed by rival F1 team

Red Bull Racing have announced that the 11-year-old son of Formula 1 world champion Kimi Raikkonen has joined their junior academy.

Robin Raikkonen, who has been hailed as one of the most promising young talents of his generation, will become part of the Red Bull driver development programme from 2027.

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The 11-year-old will start his first steps in a Junior Team set-up, which boasts four-time world champions Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen as part of its illustrious alumni.

The Finn, who has been active in karting since his early childhood, currently sits in second in the Rotax Max Challenge Italia standings.

Robin Raikkonen joins Red Bull Junior Team

Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies said: “Robin has already demonstrated exceptional ability in karting.

“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 maximise his potential.

“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.”

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Kimi Raikkonen reacts to son joining Red Bull

The 46-year-old, nicknamed ‘The Iceman’, raced across 19 F1 seasons between 2001 and 2021, winning the 2007 drivers’ championship.

The former McLaren, Ferrari, and Alfa Romeo driver recorded 21 Grand Prix victories and 103 podium finishes across his career.

Raikkonen Sr. was also one of motorsport’s most iconic personalities, from falling off a boat drunk to avoiding Pele for a toilet break.

On his son joining Red Bull’s Junior Team, he said: “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.

“Laurent and everyone else at Red Bull have been incredibly supportive throughout all our discussions.

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“They offer a compelling and comprehensive programme 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 endeavours 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 programme, and he will dedicate all his efforts to warrant the trust that Red Bull is placing in him.”