Red Bull have discovered multiple generational talents during their time in Formula 1 and the latest one off the production line may be around the corner and ready to partner Max Verstappen.
Arvid Lindblad has just attained a FIA Super Licence which permits him to compete in Formula 1, after winning the Formula Regional Oceania Championship.
At 17 years old, he’s stepping up to Formula 2 with Campos for his first full-time season in the junior category.
After Red Bull’s driver mayhem in 2024, he has already been tipped for a seat with them shortly, especially if the likes of Liam Lawson or Isack Hadjar fail to perform.
Red Bull could promote Lindblad to a seat with a wild play in 2025 after he managed to secure his FIA Super Licence. It would make him the second second-youngest driver in the sport’s history.
He already has some people on his side, with Helmut Marko believing Lindblad can deliver titles to Red Bull in the future.
Arvid Lindblad believes Max Verstappen is a better Formula 1 driver than Michael Schumacher
The sport welcomes six full-time rookies to the fold in 2025 as teams introduce young talents to prepare them for the 2026 F1 regulations, which they will need some experience for.
It’s also a chance for some to experiment. The likes of Jack Doohan and Alpine and Isack Hadjar at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls both have one-year contracts. If they perform well, they could guarantee their long-term futures.
There could be an opportunity at VCARB for Lindblad if he impresses early on in his maiden Formula 2 campaign, and can prove to Red Bull that he is ready for the big leap.
READ MORE: Red Bull’s next F1 hopeful shares what he has to do to earn 2026 seat from Helmut Marko
It’s unlikely that he would be prepared for a jump to the senior team in 2026, but giving him some experience before the new regulations may be advantageous to the young British Swede.
When handed a list of questions by the Inside Line F1 podcast, he gave his verdict on who was the best driver from a variety of choices.
Possible future teammate Verstappen reigned victorious, with Lindblad picking him over both Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton.
| Question | Lindblad’s response |
| Norris or Leclerc? | Leclerc |
| Leclerc or Piastri? | Leclerc |
| Leclerc or Sainz? | Leclerc |
| Leclerc or Alonso? | Alonso |
| Alonso or Vettel? | Vettel |
| Vettel or Verstappen? | Verstappen |
| Verstappen or Schumacher? | Verstappen |
| Verstappen or Hamilton? | Verstappen |
Arvid Lindblad was inspired by Lewis Hamilton to send Lando Norris message
If Lindblad does land on the grid soon, he will be part of the next generation who are starting to take over the sport.
With both Fernando Alonso and Hamilton over the age of 40 this year, their best years may be behind them and their days are numbered.
Even Verstappen has mentioned how he intends to race in other series beyond the conclusion of his Red Bull contract in 2028. It’s why Lindblad could be a big part of their succession plan.
READ MORE: Helmut Marko already pushing for ‘outstanding’ driver to replace Yuki Tsunoda in 2026
The 17-year-old revealed that he once told Lando Norris that he would see him on the Formula 1 track in just five years, at the age of 14.
Lindblad explained that Hamilton inspired his Norris message and that he felt brave in the moment he approached the McLaren driver.
Maybe they’ll be fighting for victories and championships against each other soon, especially if he continues his ascension through the junior categories.
