Arvid Lindblad Delivers on Lewis Hamilton-Inspired Promise to Lando Norris, Secures F1 Debut

Red Bull prospect Arvid Lindblad once directly told Lando Norris to "remember me," stating he'd see him "in five years" as a Formula 1 rival, a bold nod to his idol Lewis Hamilton. That prediction has now become reality.

Why it matters:

Lindblad's promotion to Racing Bulls for the 2026 F1 season not only validates his confidence but also highlights Red Bull's continued commitment to nurturing young talent. This move sets the stage for a new generation of rivalries, potentially adding an exciting dynamic to the sport as Lindblad fulfills a promise made years ago.

The Details:

• F1 Debut Confirmed: Arvid Lindblad, a highly-rated British racer, will make his Formula 1 debut in 2026 with Racing Bulls. This announcement came as part of Red Bull's unveiling of its complete driver line-ups for the 2026 season.
• Driver Line-up Changes: Lindblad will graduate from F2 to an F1 seat at Racing Bulls, partnering with Liam Lawson. This reshuffle means Yuki Tsunoda, after struggling alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull, loses his grid spot but will remain with the team as the F1 2026 test and reserve driver.
• Rising Star: Lindblad is considered one of Red Bull's most exciting junior talents in recent years. He holds the record for the youngest race winner in both F3 and F2 and has secured two wins in his sole F2 season this year.
• The Promise: Footage has resurfaced of a 14-year-old Lindblad telling Norris, "Hello Lando, I want you to remember me. I'll see you in five years." This interaction, inspired by Lewis Hamilton's famous encounter with Ron Dennis, underscored Lindblad's early ambition and belief in his future F1 career.
• Hamilton's Blueprint: Lindblad explained his reasoning, citing Hamilton's story of telling then-McLaren chief Ron Dennis, "one day I want to be Formula 1 World Champion in your car." Hamilton famously delivered on that promise by winning his maiden championship with McLaren in 2008.

What's next:

Lindblad's move to F1 marks the exciting culmination of his junior career and the beginning of a highly anticipated new chapter. As he prepares to line up against Norris on the 2026 grid, all eyes will be on whether this young talent can live up to his ambitious promise and establish himself as a strong contender in Formula 1.