Max Verstappen has reacted to Robin Raikkonnen, son of 2007 Formula 1 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen, joining the Red Bull Young Driver Programme.
11 year old Raikkonen has joined the programme, setting in motion a an eventual goal to join the F1 fraternity in around a decade’s time.
Raikkonen has performed well in karting and attracted Red Bull, as he seeks to emulate his iconic father Kimi, who raced in F1 in multiple stints between 2001 and 2021, taking the 2007 championship along the way.
Verstappen has given his reaction, revealing he had a private conversation with both father and son ahead of the race in Monza.
“I met them before the race on Sunday [the Italian Grand Prix]. They were sitting upstairs, so I had a quick chat with Kimi and with Robin,” he said.
”It was good. When they were around I had a little chat and I knew that he was signed already. It’s good to see.”
Verstappen jokingly implied that he may still be racing when or if young Raikkonen makes his debut: “Yeah, who knows. Maybe, maybe not.
“I guess eventually they also need a seat for him in the team. So then, yeah, maybe I’ll move aside.”
Red Bull keeping an eye on Robin Raikkonen
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed the rationale behind the signing, stating that he had “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,” the Frenchman added.
“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.”
Another son of a world champion would be welcomed onto the F1 grid, with Raikkonen proving that he has the speed as well as the pedigree.
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