Arvid Lindblad to Join Racing Bulls in 2026
Arvid Lindblad, hailing from Britain, is set to fulfill his childhood dream by joining Racing Bulls in 2026, marking his debut in Formula 1. In an exclusive conversation with Motorsport.com, he opens up about his aspirations, his diverse heritage, and a promise he made to Lando Norris.
Confirmed F1 Race Seat for 2026
The announcement from Racing Bulls on Tuesday confirmed that the 18-year-old Lindblad will take over the F1 seat in 2026, succeeding Isack Hadjar, who will move to Red Bull Racing. Lindblad, born in Surrey, will become the fifth British driver on the 2026 grid, and the 20th Red Bull junior to reach Formula 1 after a rapid ascent since entering the sport in 2021.
Early Ambitions and Journey
Lindblad’s journey into Formula 1 has been swift, but it was never just a dream; he believed it would happen from a young age. “I’ve dreamt of being in F1 since I started this journey at five years old,” he shared during his first interview as an F1 driver.
Cultural Heritage and Family Influence
With Swedish roots from his father and Indian heritage through his mother, Lindblad values both sides of his family background. “I frequently visit my grandparents in Sweden and cherish the Indian culture from my mother’s side,” he remarked, pointing out the importance of humility and hard work passed down from his parents.
Proving His Worth in Karting
Before moving to cars, Lindblad demonstrated his talent in karting, triumphing in the LGM Series and the British Championship in 2017. His achievements led him to compete internationally, winning several titles in Europe, positioning him for a transition into racing cars.
Sparks of a F1 Connection with Lando Norris
In 2021, during a karting event, Lindblad approached Norris, telling him, “I want you to remember me. I’ll see you in five years.” This moment remains a motivational memory for him, reinforcing his unwavering belief in making it to Formula 1.
Preparing for the Future
As Lindblad gears up for the new challenges in F1, he acknowledges there’s still much to learn. “I don’t feel 100% ready, but I trust my ability to adapt,” he stated. Anticipating the significant regulation changes in 2026, he aims to develop into a better driver and seize the unique opportunities ahead.
