The 18-year-old steps into the seat alongside Liam Lawson after impressing Red Bull’s management with his pace and composure throughout 2025. Lindblad capped his Formula 2 campaign with a victory in Abu Dhabi, strengthening his case at the perfect moment and showcasing the potential that earned him attention early in his career.

He also took part in two Formula One practice sessions during the season, giving Racing Bulls an early look at his adaptability in F1 machinery. His performances were enough to convince the team he was ready for the next step.

Lindblad said the promotion fulfilled a dream he had held since childhood, calling the opportunity “a proud moment” after a journey that began in karting at five years old. His arrival makes him the only rookie on the 2026 grid and one of the youngest drivers in the field.

For Racing Bulls, the move continues their tradition of promoting young talent through the Red Bull programme. The team now heads into the new season with a promising pairing and high expectations around its latest graduate to reach Formula One.

Lindblad turned some laps in the 2025 Racing Bulls machine as part of the end of season Pirelli tyre test session ahead of his 2026 season debut.