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Robin Raikkonen, the 11-year-old son of 2007 Formula 1 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, has joined Red Bull's driver development program, the team announced Wednesday.
The young Finnish driver, nicknamed "Ace," will begin working with Red Bull in 2027 as he continues his racing career.
Red Bull described the younger Raikkonen as one of the most promising young talents of his generation, citing his results in karting championships.
Team principal Laurent Mekies said the youngster's speed, racecraft and natural talent had already made him one of the most promising drivers in his age group, adding that his maturity and calm approach stood out as well.
"Our goal is to develop him step by step, without placing any unnecessary pressure on his shoulders," Mekies said.
Kimi Raikkonen, who won the 2007 F1 World Championship with Ferrari, welcomed his son's addition to the program, describing it as a comprehensive pathway to develop Robin's talent over the coming years and saying the family was thrilled that Robin had been chosen to join the Red Bull Junior Team.
He added that his son joins "with great humility" and will work to warrant the trust Red Bull has placed in him.
"The Iceman" also began his racing career in karting before progressing through Formula Renault to make his Formula 1 debut with Sauber in 2001.
Red Bull's driver development program has produced several Formula 1 drivers, including four-time world champions Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, as well as Carlos Sainz.
Its latest graduate is Arvid Lindblad, who made his Formula 1 debut this season.
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