In a significant step toward a potential official Formula 1 debut, Red Bull junior driver Arvid Lindblad is scheduled to test an F1 car next week at Imola’s Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari.
The 17-year-old British talent will and FIA F2 driver will take the wheel of the 2023 AlphaTauri AT04, running under the Racing Bulls banner, according to sources cited by Motorsport.com Italy.
This test marks a milestone for Lindblad, who previously completed a limited 300km run at the same circuit in February. The upcoming session will provide him with a comprehensive opportunity to familiarize himself with the demands of an F1 car, a critical step in his development as a Red Bull prospect.
The test comes on the heels of the FIA granting Lindblad a superlicence, despite him not yet meeting the standard minimum age requirement of 18.
The governing body made an exception, citing Lindblad’s “outstanding ability and maturity” in single-seater racing, particularly highlighted by his strong performance in Formula 2 this season, where he currently holds third place with two wins.
The Imola test is seen as preparation for a possible free practice (FP1) debut later this season, as F1 regulations now mandate teams to field rookie drivers in four practice sessions per year, up from two previously.
Additionally, Lindblad could be called upon as a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing or Racing Bulls if circumstances such as injury, illness, or penalties – such as Max Verstappen’s looming risk of a race ban due to penalty points – require a stand-in.
Testing at Imola offers Lindblad a low-stakes environment to build confidence before potentially stepping into the high-pressure world of an FP1 session, where every move is scrutinized.
The importance of such preparation was underscored last year when Mercedes junior Kimi Antonelli crashed during his FP1 debut at Monza.
As Lindblad continues to impress in F2 and now prepares for his F1 test, the young gun is positioning himself as a serious contender for a future seat in Formula 1, with Red Bull closely monitoring his progress.
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