Rico Salmela began riding motorcycles at a very young age, getting his first taste of motocross at just two years old. Later, at five years old, Salmela tried racing on tarmac for the first time, quickly working his way through the Finnish and Dutch ranks. After competing in Spanish championships for a couple of years, Salmela arrived in the European Talent Cup for the first time in 2021 – instantly fighting inside the top 10. 2022 saw Salmela’s breakthrough year in the ETC, clinching two podiums, something he would repeat the following season. He debuted in the JuniorGP class in 2024, winning one race in his rookie season before another impressive season in 2025 – catching the attention of the Grand Prix paddock. The Red Bull KTM Tech3 squad signed the Finnish star for the Moto3 World Championship as another exciting talent joins the grid in 2026!