Only one rookie makes his debut in Formula 1 this year; representing Racing Bulls, 18‑year‑old Arvid Lindblad steps up to the top flight. The British–Swedish driver put in his first proper miles in the VCARB 03 during the private winter test in Barcelona. That also gave the team management a chance to meet their newest recruit. Lindblad’s composure and professionalism were immediately noticeable.
The Racing Bulls top brass praised Arvid Lindblad for his work ethic during the first shakedown in Barcelona. Team principal Alan Permane admitted the rookie’s approach reminded him of Isack Hadjar, who last year also made his F1 debut at the sister team. After the private tests, Permane was asked about Lindblad’s performances on and off track. “I’m very impressed with both,” he replied. “He’s very calm, very cool; nothing seems to faze him.”
‘The pace is there’
“Arvid (Lindblad, ed.) is a bit like how I described Isack last year,” Permane explained. “He just wants to learn and soak up as much information as possible. He asks a lot of questions and is constantly seeking advice: ‘How does this work? How do I do that?’ Of course we back him all the time. The most important thing – the pace – is definitely there. Our two drivers are very similar, so on that front things are going well.”
Technical director Tim Goss gave a similar response. He praised the young driver for the way he approached both the completely new car and the new F1 regulations. “He’s very calm and professional,” Goss said. “On top of that his feedback is very direct. For someone his age that’s impressive. His sessions in the car were mainly to get him used to this type of machine. They’re very different, not only in handling but also in energy management. Yet he remained calm, composed and professional throughout. Now we’re dialling in the car’s balance, his feedback is simple and clear. He has really made an impression.”
