Robin Raikkonen will join Red Bull’s Junior Team to continue his development from 2027.
Robin, son of 2007 F1 champion – Kimi Raikkonen, has already enjoyed success in national and international Rotax and WSK championships in karting, and will now join Red Bull’s junior programme next year.
Red Bull Team Principal, Laurent Mekies has welcomed Robin’s decision to join their junior team given his qualities and potential, but iterated that patience will be key in his development in order to allow him to progress at a pace which benefits his career long term.
“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.
Kimi added that he and his family “are all thrilled and excited” to see Robin join Red Bull’s junior programme for the next steps in his career, and praised Mekies and the team for their support throughout the negotiations which left his family confident that his son will excel with their support.
“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.
“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.
Raikkonen also acknowledged Red Bull’s successful record with drivers like four-time champions, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, and iterated that Robin will thrive to reward Red Bull’s belief in his potential.
“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.”