David Coulthard sees a familiar pattern in how Kimi Raikkonen is raising his son, Robin. According to the former Formula 1 driver, the approach taken by the elder Raikkonen closely mirrors what Jos Verstappen did with Max. The comparison emerged after Red Bull officially announced that Robin, just 11 years old, has been signed to their driver academy starting in 2027.
The news sent ripples through the paddock. The Red Bull Junior Team is known as a crucible that has produced many great names. Max Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel, Carlos Sainz, Pierre Gasly, and Daniel Ricciardo are among the alumni now gracing the F1 grid. Now, Robin Raikkonen's name is on the radar, and expectations have skyrocketed.
The Jos Verstappen approach
Speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, Coulthard revealed that Kimi Raikkonen isn't just watching from the sidelines. The 2007 world champion is fully involved in his son's career. The Raikkonen family even moved from Switzerland to Italy to live near the kart track. Robin is reportedly training almost daily.
"He is doing what Jos Verstappen did with Max," Coulthard said. "They are developing the perfect scenario for the most experienced young driver. But one thing: some of the best karters never make it in cars because the vehicle dynamics are different. A kart has a solid chassis, no suspension, and a solid rear axle. When you go to a car, you have suspension, a differential, and downforce."
This statement highlights the complexity of transitioning from karting to car racing. Coulthard doesn't doubt Robin's talent, but he warns that many karting stars stall at the next level. However, with direct guidance from Kimi and Red Bull's support, Robin is on the right path to minimise that risk.
Personality and future challenges
Asked about Robin's character, Coulthard said the kid seems likeable and doesn't show the arrogance often seen in some young drivers. "He seems like a really nice kid. His parents are grounded, so he's going to be grounded," he said. Coulthard also highlighted puberty as a crucial phase that can change everything. "There are a lot of young girls in karting mixing it with the boys, but once you go through your teenage years, that's when you find out. That's when you see if they still have the focus, determination, and talent."
He then touched on how brutal racing can be. "Lewis Hamilton is the most winning driver in terms of grand prix victories, but he's done 400-odd grands prix. He's lost 300-odd. He's only won 100-odd. So, there's a lot of pain there." Coulthard wanted to emphasise that mental resilience is key, and that will be tested in Robin as he grows older.
For Red Bull, signing Robin is not just a long-term investment but also a branding strategy. The Raikkonen name is still highly magnetic in motorsport, and pairing it with Verstappen could be a compelling story for fans. However, pressure will inevitably come. The public will compare Robin to Max, and that's not always fair for an 11-year-old.
Kimi Raikkonen himself is known for being calm and quiet. His hands-on approach might surprise some, but it shows his seriousness. If Robin continues to develop, we might see him on the F1 track one day. But for now, let him enjoy his childhood on the kart, learning from one of the best drivers ever.
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