Red Bull Identifies Potential Replacements for Max Verstappen

Arvid Lindblad, a junior driver, is poised to make his official Formula 1 debut next week at Silverstone. This announcement was made on Wednesday by Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor.

Lindblad, age 17, has distinguished himself within the Red Bull Junior Team. Currently competing in the F2 Championship with Campos, he is scheduled to participate in his first Formula 1 race weekend next month at Silverstone. He has already obtained an FIA Super Licence and concluded his initial comprehensive test with Racing Bulls at Imola earlier in the week.

Helmut Marko stated that Lindblad spent a portion of Monday in Italy familiarizing himself with the car to prepare for his Silverstone appearance. Marko commended Lindblad’s mental fortitude and confidence.

Marko’s Quote:

“He spent half a day in the car in Italy on Monday as preparation,” Marko stated. “He will also participate in Friday practice at Silverstone. His defining characteristics are mental strength and self-assurance.”

Marko noted that with Verstappen close to a race suspension due to penalty points, they have limited options for substitutes, highlighting the challenges in securing appropriate replacements.

“We are making preparations in the event Max Verstappen faces a penalty,” Marko clarified.

“Presently, we have two potential replacement drivers: Lindblad and Ayumu Iwasa. However, Iwasa’s Formula 1 obligations occasionally conflict with his racing commitments in Japan.

“For some races, we even coordinated with another team, and on one occasion, a substitute driver was designated for three different teams. It’s not easy to find someone readily available and capable. Consequently, Lindblad is now getting the opportunity in the car.”