Arvid Lindblad just landed an F1 seat with Racing Bulls starting in 2026.
The 18-year-old British driver will team up with Liam Lawson at the Faenza-based squad, replacing Isack Hadjar.
This news, which GPblog previously reported, makes Lindblad the latest success story from the Red Bull Academy – the same program that produced world champions Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel.
Lindblad’s journey with Red Bull began back in 2021 when he was still in karting.
Since then, he’s climbed through the motorsport ranks impressively. He joined Formula 2 this year and made history as F2’s youngest-ever race winner, taking the checkered flag in the Jeddah sprint race when he was just 17.
He’ll be among the youngest drivers on the 2026 grid, alongside fellow newcomers Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman.
Lindblad has already gotten a taste of F1 machinery. He drove the RB21 earlier this season during FP1 at the Mexican Grand Prix as part of the FIA’s rookie driver requirements.
He didn’t just participate – he impressed. Lindblad finished sixth in that session, actually outpacing Yuki Tsunoda in the sister car.
Fans will get another chance to see him in action during FP1 in Abu Dhabi, where he’ll again replace Tsunoda.
“Arvid’s rapid progression marks him as one of the standout young talents in the sport,” said Alan Permane, Team Principal of Visa Cash App Racing Bulls. “Together, they form a strong and dynamic pairing, one that embodies the ambition and youthful spirit of VCARB as we enter a transformative new era for Formula One.”
Lindblad couldn’t hide his excitement about achieving his childhood dream.
“I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity. Since I started this journey at five years old, it was always my goal to be in Formula One so it’s a proud moment to take this step,” he said.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Programme and my personal team for their guidance, mentorship and belief; none of this would have been possible without their support.”
The young Brit acknowledges the challenges ahead but seems ready to embrace them.
“2026 will be a big challenge and I know there’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work closely with the team and rise to it. I can’t wait to get started, it’s going to be an exciting year!”
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