Red Bull sign Verstappen to junior team

Up-and-coming Dutch racer Max Verstappen has joined the Red Bull Junior Team, it was announced on Tuesday.

The 16-year-old, son of former F1 podium finisher Jos Verstappen, is regarded as one of the most promising young drivers in Europe, having taken seven wins in the FIA Formula Three European Championship this year, his first season in car racing.

By linking up with Red Bull, Verstappen follows in the footsteps of the likes of Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniil Kvyat, all of whom graduated to Formula One racing via the world champion team's development squad.

“It goes without saying that I’m very happy and I feel honoured to be part of the Red Bull Junior Team, which has successfully brought and guided many drivers into Formula One,” said Verstappen.

“I will take this opportunity with both hands in order to develop and maximise my career with Red Bull. I want to thank Dr Helmut Marko for his involvement in making this partnership possible and I want to thank Red Bull for putting their trust in me.”

Red Bull have confirmed that Verstappen will continue his FIA Formula Three European Championship campaign before competing in the prestigious Macau Grand Prix in November.