Red Bull junior driver Arvid Lindblad has shared his unique connection with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who inspired him in his early years. Making his Formula 1 race weekend debut at the British Grand Prix, Lindblad was granted an exemption to secure his Super Licence prior to turning 18, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. This opportunity came as part of Red Bull’s effort to nurture him as their potential next Max Verstappen.
Progress in Formula 2 and Rising Star Status
Currently competing in his first Formula 2 season, Lindblad has delivered notable performances, including wins at the Jeddah Sprint and the Feature race in Spain. These victories place him seventh in the championship standings. His strong start to the year was highlighted by a dominant run in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship, which helped justify the early issuance of his Super Licence.
Holding dual citizenship in Sweden and the United Kingdom, Lindblad was born in October 2007. His initial admiration for Hamilton stemmed partly from the fact that Hamilton debuted in Formula 1 the year Lindblad was born, creating a meaningful link between them. Lindblad explained,
“When I started to get more into the sport, it was at the point where he was winning,”
and added,
“I also thought it was a bit weird, but the fact that his first year in F1 was the year I was born, so I felt some form of affiliation towards him in the beginning, when I was sort of seven, eight.”
Stepping Up Within Red Bull’s Junior Programme
Lindblad is recognized as the standout talent within Red Bull’s junior driver ranks. His rapid ascent has been marked not only by his early acquisition of a Super Licence but also by his participation in a Formula 1 Free Practice session, substituting for Yuki Tsunoda. Expectations suggest that Lindblad could secure a full race seat with Red Bull’s Racing Bulls team in the upcoming season, particularly if Tsunoda departs alongside Honda at the end of this year.
The exact composition of the Racing Bulls lineup remains uncertain, with potential teammates including Isack Hadjar or Liam Lawson. This decision is expected to be made by Red Bull‘s influential driver advisor, Helmut Marko.
From Admirer to Potential Rival
As Lindblad approaches a possible full-time F1 seat, his perspective on past heroes has matured. While he once looked up to Hamilton, he now refrains from idolizing any of the current top drivers, viewing them all with respect for their exceptional talent. Lindblad shared,
“I’ve kind of now got to a point where I don’t think I idolise any of the drivers in Formula 1, but just have a very big respect for them all,”
and continued,
“The level they perform at is extremely impressive, and I just respect them all very highly.”
This evolution exemplifies Lindblad’s transition from a fan to a competitor poised to challenge established names on the Formula 1 grid.
