Marko supports the advancement of 'mature' teenager Lindblad.
"At 18, he’s completely ready for this."
Helmut Marko has clarified why 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad has been quickly promoted to a 2026 F1 seat, despite a mixed performance during the mid-season of Formula 2. The young driver concluded the season with a sprint in Abu Dhabi and even drove Yuki Tsunoda’s Red Bull on Friday, finishing FP1 in 15th place with 26 laps completed. However, Lindblad was candid about his own performance.
"Regarding the session itself, I wasn’t very satisfied with how it went for me," he remarked. "I believe I could have performed better, and it highlighted some issues I need to address for next year.
"Competing in both F1 and F2 this weekend was a new experience for me and required some adjustments."
Nonetheless, Marko is believed to have strongly advocated for Lindblad’s debut at Racing Bulls, ahead of the more seasoned Tsunoda, who will now take on a reserve role at Red Bull.
"Red Bull is a team recognized for providing young drivers with opportunities and aiding in their development," Marko stated to reporters. "At 18, he is fully prepared for this.
"He has achieved high placements in every junior championship since his debut. Arvid is very mature. I would describe him as a 25-year-old in an 18-year-old’s body."
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