F1 world champion’s son, 11, joins Red Bull

Jack Rathborn Wed, September 9, 2026 at 12:21 PM UTC

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The youngster is following in the footsteps of his 2007 world champion father, alongside alumni such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen

Robin Raikkonen, son of former F1 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, has signed with Red Bull at just 11 years of age.

Red Bull have secured one of the most coveted young drivers in the sport, with Raikkonen set to join the Red Bull Junior Team and become part of the team’s development programme from 2027.

Raikkonen has been a sensation in karting throughout his childhood, with success following in national and international Rotax and WSK championships.

Robin will hope to follow in the footsteps of his father, Kimi, who landed the 2007 title and can boast a massive 21 Grand Prix victories and 103 podium finishes in 19 F1 seasons from 2001 to 2021.

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"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,” Kimi Raikkonen said. “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.

“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.”

Robin Raikkonen sits in the (3) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB22 Red Bull Ford Powertrains in the garage prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Italy (Getty/Red Bull Content Pool)

While team principal Laurent Mekies added: "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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Source: “AOL Sports”