Cubefunder is proud to sponsor Flame Airikkala, an incredibly talented racing driver with a passion for motorsport that runs deep in her blood. At just 14, Flame started karting, but her journey into racing goes back even further. With her mother’s history in racing and her late grandfather’s success in the World Rally Championship, motorsport has always been a part of her life. But, as Flame reveals, it wasn’t a path she was pushed into.
“I tried lots of different sports growing up, but once I got behind the wheel, that was it for me. I knew this was what I wanted to do.”
Flame has already achieved remarkable feats in her racing career, with one of her standout moments being qualifying 3rd at Silverstone in the Fiesta series. Up against 25 other drivers — most of them male — this achievement showed her that she belongs at the front.
“Just the round before, I’d secured my first podium in car racing after a really tough weekend, which made it even more meaningful. It showed me that not giving up pays off, and those moments are what keep me pushing forward.”
As a young driver, the financial burden of racing can be overwhelming. That’s why sponsors like Cubefunder are so crucial. Flame shares how Cubefunder’s support has helped keep her racing and pushing toward her dreams.
“It’s amazing to have Cubefunder on board as a sponsor. Their support has been a huge help in allowing me to keep racing and chasing my goals. Motorsport is an expensive sport, and without sponsors like Cubefunder, it’s almost impossible to keep progressing.”
Beyond the financial support, Flame is proud to have the Cubefunder logo on her car, adding an extra layer of motivation each time she hits the track.
Racing is not just about speed; it’s a strategic game that requires both skill and a deep understanding of the technical side of the sport. Flame explains the challenges drivers face when managing tyre usage and car setup during a race weekend.
“In GB4, we get a limited number of new tyres for each race weekend, and managing when to use them across three races and qualifying adds an extra challenge. Car setup plays a massive role too. In F4, I can adjust the front and rear wings to change the car’s balance — more downforce helps in corners, less helps on the straights.”
Her car, the F4-T014, features a carbon fibre Tatuus chassis and a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, offering plenty of technical challenges for Flame to master.
Looking ahead, Flame’s goals are ambitious. She wants to continue climbing the single-seater ladder, eventually competing in F1 Academy, GT cars, rallying, endurance racing, and even NASCAR.
“I just love being in a race car, whatever the format, and I want to keep driving fast for as long as I can.”
Short-term, she’s focused on making the most out of her time in Formula 4, learning as much as possible, and fighting for podiums against more experienced competitors.
Flame has an exciting year ahead, with several races planned in GB4, Kyojo Cup F4 in Japan, and even a Radical race at Donington. Some of her upcoming events include:
Racing isn’t just physically demanding; it’s also mentally taxing. Flame prepares for each race by focusing on both physical fitness and mental resilience. She hits the gym to build strength and endurance and works with a mind coach to ensure she’s mentally prepared for the pressure of race day.
“I go to the gym to build strength and cardiovascular endurance. I also have a mind coach to prepare me mentally for upcoming races and we talk through pre-race warmups, deep-breathing exercises and how to deal with pressure.”
Flame’s journey is an inspiring one, and we’re thrilled to support her as she continues to rise through the ranks of motorsport. Keep an eye on this promising driver — with determination and the right support, there’s no telling where her career will take her!
At Cubefunder, we believe in supporting national talent and helping the next generation of leaders succeed. Our commitment to Flame is part of our larger mission to foster opportunities for young talent to thrive, whether in motorsport, golf, business, or beyond.
Gary Miller-Cheevers, our CEO, shares his pride in this partnership:
“I am immensely proud for Cubefunder to be associated with and able to assist the career of Flame as she progresses.”
