The Iceman's mini-me is already heating up the track

©Instagram

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©Instagram

It’s been several years since Kimi Räikkönen left the F1 paddock behind, but the 2007 world champion is still feeding his competitive spirit – this time through his role as mentor and mechanic-in-chief to his 10-year-old karting prodigy, Robin.

The former Ferrari ace looked every bit the proud – if typically poker-faced – racing dad at Pista Azzurra in Jesolo, Italy, where Robin let his driving do the talking, storming to a podium finish on the day.

Whether it’s fine-tuning setups or offering that a bit of trademark no-nonsense advice (“Just go faster”), Kimi’s cool approach seems to be rubbing off — and if Robin’s rise continues at this pace, the Räikkönen legacy is already back on track.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.