Unknown 19-Year-Old Confirmed For F1 Hot Seat

Image source: Getty Images

Toro Rosso has announced its driver line-up for the 2014 Formula 1 season, confirming that 19-year-old Daniil Kvyat will replace Red Bull-bound Daniel Ricciardo.

The news came as a surprise to the F1 paddock, with many expecting Formula Renault 3.5 driver Antonio Felix da Costa to take the vacant seat at the Red Bull junior team.

Image source: GP3 Media

While the Russian may be young, Kvyat has four years of single-seater racing experience under his belt and has proven impressive. He currently races in the GP3 series for MW Arden and lies second in the championship with two races remaining. He also raced in the European F3 championship this year, but isn't eligible for championship points due to not having a regular drive. Nevertheless, he's still taken seven podiums and one race victory.

Image source: Getty Images

Kvyat has a small amount of F1 experience after testing for Toro Rosso at the Silverstone Young Driver Test earlier in the year. He's been part of the Red Bull Junior Team since 2010. Good luck to the kid!