Robin Raikkonen Signs for Red Bull Junior Team — SkimNews
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- Robin Raikkonen, nicknamed 'Ace', will join Red Bull's driver development programme in 2027 after impressing in karting championships as one of the most promising drivers in his age group.
- Red Bull's junior programme has produced four-time F1 world champions Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
- Kimi Raikkonen, 46, said the family is 'thrilled and excited' that Robin was chosen, citing Red Bull's 'compelling and comprehensive programme' to develop his natural talent.
- Laurent Mekies, Red Bull team principal, praised Robin's 'exceptional ability in karting,' citing his 'speed, racecraft and natural talent,' 'maturity,' and 'clear focus on driving.'
- Kimi Raikkonen claimed 21 wins and 103 podiums from 349 F1 starts before retiring in 2021, his sole world championship coming with Ferrari in 2007.
- Robin follows Ella Hakkinen — daughter of Finland's double world champion Mika Hakkinen — who joined McLaren's driver development programme last year.
Why it matters: Red Bull's junior pipeline, which produced both Vettel and Verstappen, adds a marquee name in Raikkonen, whose father's 2007 Ferrari title and 103 podiums bring built-in media weight and elevated expectations. By emphasizing a 'step by step' approach with 'no unnecessary pressure,' the team is committing to long-term development over a quick F1 push.
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