Red Bull signing also inspires Valtteri Bottas to join the effort

Ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, it was announced that Robin Raikkonen has been signed by the Red Bull junior team.

Finland has always produced great motorsport talent and has a long history of drivers in Formula 1, including three world champions: Keke Rosberg (1982), Mika Hakkinen (1998 and 1999), and Kimi Raikkonen (2007).

Bottas was also happy to hear the news. He said: "Yes, that’s great news and pretty cool for Kimi as well that his 11-year-old son signs for a programme. That’s great."

The Finn would also like to help young talents in the future. He continued: "I’ve thought about it, you know, because it’s been a little bit quiet when it comes to drivers coming from Finland recently. But I haven’t found the one yet, so maybe eventually I can help. But let’s see. But, yes, definitely interested."

Currently, there is a growing number of Formula 1 drivers interested in helping the next generation. Max Verstappen has taken Dries Van Langendonck under his wing, while Lando Norris has set up his own feeder series, LN4 Fusion, with the intention of competing in F2 next year as well. Bottas' Cadillac teammate, Sergio Perez, is also working on a project behind the scenes.

Former McLaren and Red Bull Racing driver David Coulthard drew parallels between the Dutchman and Kimi Raikkonen's son.

He said on the Up to Speed podcast: "He's doing brilliantly in karting. The family have committed. They've moved from Switzerland to Italy to live by the kart track. He'll be driving every day.