Robin ‘Ace’ Raikkonen has joined the Red Bull Junior Programme as the ‘Raikkonen’ name returns to F1 from 2027 season onward.
Kimi Raikkonen was spotted at Red Bull Racing garage over the weekend in Italian GP at Monza. Little was clear at that moment that the Finn was there to sign his son Robin to a Red Bull Junior contract. The team announced his signing on Wednesday, with ‘Ace’ to join the programme from 2027 onward.
The F1 world champion documents his travels to races with his 11-year-old son, who is active in karting in Italy. In fact, he does a lot of mechanic work as well to prepare the kart for his son. The youngster currently competes in the Rotax Max Challenge Italia at Laghi, where he is fighting for the title.
While his father picked the ‘Iceman’ nickname, his son is referred as ‘Ice Cubes’. His racing programme is yet to be defined by Red Bull, but he is certainly one to watch out for in the future. And the Milton Keynes-based outfit has picked up a prized youngster in their fold.
Red Bull is Impressed by “Maturity”
“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,” Red Bull F1 Team principal Laurent Mekies.
“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 Raikkonen is “Thrilled”
At the same time, Raikkonen Sr added: “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”
