Kimi Raikkonen’s son Robin joins Red Bull Junior Team
Kimi Raikkonen’s son Robin will join the Red Bull Junior Team from 2027, the Formula 1 team confirmed on Wednesday, days after speculation about the young Finn’s future emerged during the Italian Grand Prix weekend.
The announcement follows reports last week suggesting that 11-year-old Robin, also known as Ace, was close to signing with Red Bull’s driver development programme. The speculation intensified at Monza, where the Räikkönen family was also seen at Red Bull hospitality during the race weekend.
Robin was pictured with his parents, Kimi and Minttu Räikkönen, alongside Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies. He was also photographed sitting in Max Verstappen’s car, further fuelling speculation before the agreement was officially confirmed.
Red Bull said Robin will become part of its development programme in 2027. The young karter has already competed in national and international Rotax and WSK championships, building experience across European karting.
Red Bull promises gradual development
Mekies praised Robin’s speed, racecraft and approach to competition, while stressing that Red Bull intends to support his development without placing unnecessary pressure on him.
The team principal said the programme would give the young Finn time and resources to progress through motorsport at an appropriate pace.
Kimi Räikkönen, the 2007 Formula 1 world champion, said the family was excited by Robin’s selection:
«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,» said Räikkönen.
The former Ferrari and McLaren driver said the programme offered a comprehensive route for developing Robin’s abilities and preparing him for the challenges ahead.
Robin now joins a junior system that has helped develop several Formula 1 drivers, including four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel and current Red Bull driver Max Verstappen.
The move also marks a notable connection between one of Formula 1’s most recognisable families and Red Bull, with Robin beginning his journey through the programme nearly two decades after his father won the 2007 world championship.
