Raikkonen’s Investment Helped Launch Nasr’s F1 Career
Felipe Nasr credits Kimi Raikkonen’s financial backing during his junior years for helping him reach Formula One, despite their on-track rivalry early in 2015.
Felipe Nasr has revealed that Kimi Raikkonen provided financial support during a crucial stage of his junior racing career, helping the Brazilian secure his route to Formula One. The connection dates back to 2010, when Nasr drove for Double R Racing, a team established by Raikkonen and his manager Steve Robertson.
Despite clashing with Raikkonen on track in Nasr’s first two grands prix with Sauber in 2015, the 22-year-old Brazilian told Canal Latin America that he remains close to the Finn. Nasr explained that when his family could no longer meet the costs of his racing career, Raikkonen was among those who stepped in with funding. Robertson, who co-founded Double R, is now also Nasr’s manager.
Nasr’s F1 start and sponsorship debate
Nasr’s debut in Formula One was marked by a fifth-place finish at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix, placing him ahead of established names such as Valtteri Bottas and Daniel Ricciardo after the opening rounds. Despite strong results, Nasr’s prominent sponsorship from Banco do Brasil has led some to label him a ‘pay driver’, a tag he has publicly challenged. Nasr argues there is little difference between being backed by a major sponsor and being supported by a manufacturer’s junior programme, such as Red Bull.
The financial support from Raikkonen and Robertson helped Nasr progress through Formula 3 and GP2, leading to his Formula One entry. The relationship between the two drivers has continued off-track, even as they compete for results on it. Nasr’s case highlights the complex mix of talent, funding and opportunity required to reach the top level of motorsport.
