The New Verstappen? Lindblad Fast-Tracked to Red Bull Seat in Shocking Twist
As the second half of the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, speculation around Max Verstappen’s future teammate is heating up. Two standout names from Red Bull’s junior program are emerging as serious contenders: Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad. But with Helmut Marko firmly back in charge of Red Bull’s talent pipeline, the door could be wide open for a bold and unexpected decision.
Lindblad, a rising star from Britain, has already been turning heads behind the scenes. Red Bull has been quietly giving him significant testing time in the RB21—something not often afforded to such young prospects. His performance during a private test at Silverstone was reportedly impressive, holding his own under pressure and staying surprisingly close to Max Verstappen’s lap times. Internally, this has strengthened Lindblad’s candidacy as a serious option for the 2026 seat at Red Bull Racing.
While many assumed Isack Hadjar—who’s been solid in Formula 2—was the logical next choice, Marko has long hinted at Lindblad being a step above. Even in 2024, while Hadjar was making waves in F2, Marko publicly claimed that Red Bull’s biggest talent was still in Formula 3: Arvid Lindblad.
What sets Lindblad apart isn’t just raw speed—it’s preparation. He’s frequently in Red Bull’s simulator in Milton Keynes, getting early exposure to the 2026 car and racking up valuable testing mileage. This level of investment and involvement is usually reserved for drivers already on the F1 grid, or those with an imminent promotion.
Historically, Red Bull has preferred to develop their drivers through the Racing Bulls team before handing them the main seat. Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen both followed that path. But Lindblad might be the exception to that rule—the “new Max Verstappen,” who could bypass the junior team altogether.
If the signs are anything to go by, Red Bull may already have their next star lined up. Lindblad isn’t just in contention—he might be the chosen one.
