News Summary
- Red Bull has confirmed that Robin Räikkönen will join its junior driver programme in 2027.
- The 11-year-old Finn, son of 2007 F1 world champion Kimi Räikkönen, has impressed with his performances in karting.
- Kimi welcomed the opportunity, while Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said the priority will be developing Robin without putting unnecessary pressure on him.
Red Bull confirmed on Wednesday (9) that Robin Räikkönen, the son of 2007 Formula 1 world champion Kimi Räikkönen, will join the team’s junior driver programme in 2027. The 11-year-old Finn has attracted attention with his performances in karting and will now begin the next stage of his motorsport development under the Red Bull umbrella.
Robin’s arrival had already been the subject of speculation in recent days, with the rumours gaining momentum after Kimi Räikkönen was spotted visiting Red Bull’s facilities in the paddock during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
Red Bull’s junior programme has historically served as one of the sport’s main pathways into Formula 1, with Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen among the drivers whose careers were closely linked to the team.
Kimi Räikkönen welcomed the opportunity for his son and praised Red Bull’s approach during discussions over Robin’s future.
“We are very happy with Robin’s choice to continue his journey in motorsport as part of the Red Bull driver programme. Laurent and the whole team have shown incredible support throughout all our discussions. They offer a solid and comprehensive programme to develop and nurture Robin’s progress over the coming years, giving him all the experience he needs to develop his natural talent,” Kimi said.
“The Red Bull Junior Team has a long history of extraordinary success. Among the drivers who have come through the team are Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, among many others. It is therefore with great humility that Robin joins this prestigious programme, and he will dedicate all his efforts to honour the trust Red Bull is placing in him,” the 2007 world champion added.
Red Bull wants to develop Räikkönen without pressure
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies also welcomed Robin’s arrival, stressing that the team intends to give the young driver time to develop rather than placing immediate expectations on him.
“Robin has already demonstrated exceptional ability in karting. His speed, race intelligence 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, calm demeanour and clear focus on driving,” Mekies said.
“Our objective is to develop him step by step, without putting any unnecessary pressure on him. The journey in motorsport is a long one, and we will give him the time, support and resources needed to maximise his potential.”
“We firmly believe that talent flourishes when it has the support of the right people, the right culture and the right environment. That is exactly what we are committed to providing Robin as he continues his development. We are very excited to take the next steps on this journey alongside Robin and his family,” the Red Bull boss concluded.
Robin now joins a Red Bull programme that has produced multiple F1 race winners and world champions, although he remains at the very beginning of his motorsport career. His progress through karting and the junior single-seater ranks will determine whether he can eventually follow his father’s path into Formula 1.
The timing also gives the story an additional connection to the current F1 season. Red Bull heads to Madrid this weekend for the Spanish Grand Prix, while the team continues to work on closing the gap to championship leader Mercedes.
Formula 1 returns from September 11-13 for the 14th round of the 2026 season at the new MADRING street circuit. GRANDE PRÊMIO will cover the entire Spanish GP weekend, with all the latest news and action from practice, qualifying and the race.
FAQ
Who is Robin Räikkönen?
Robin Räikkönen is the 11-year-old son of 2007 Formula 1 world champion Kimi Räikkönen. He has already attracted attention for his performances in karting and will join Red Bull’s junior driver programme in 2027.
When will Robin Räikkönen join Red Bull?
Robin will officially join Red Bull’s junior programme in 2027. The programme will support his development as he progresses through the junior categories of motorsport.
Did Kimi Räikkönen race for Red Bull in F1?
No. Kimi Räikkönen never raced for Red Bull in Formula 1. He won the 2007 world championship with Ferrari and also drove for Sauber, McLaren, Lotus and Alfa Romeo during his F1 career.
