Max Verstappen true colours on show with classy Arvid Lindblad gesture at Mexican GP

Formula 1 might be a worldwide phenomenon, but Britain has consistently managed to churn out a steady flow of gifted drivers. Come next season, almost a quarter of the field will be representing the Union Jack, with youngster Arvid Lindblad poised to become the fifth British racer on the F1 roster.

Make that six if you include London-native Alex Albon, who competes under the Thai flag in honour of his mother's heritage. All attention was fixed on Red Bull's rising star Lindblad this Friday as he undertook his ultimate test for a 2026 F1 berth with the junior Racing Bulls outfit. And what a platform he was afforded: Opening practice at the Mexico City Grand Prix, behind the wheel of Max Verstappen's machine.

The teenager had to make his mark, yet his primary responsibility during the Dutchman's late-season championship charge was avoiding any catastrophic damage to his Red Bull.

"I was given the pep talk beforehand," Lindblad grinned. "Obviously, you never want to crash, and there was even more emphasis on that in this session, because of the amazing job the team have done over the last few races to bring themselves into the championship. It wasn't easy on that side, but when the visor went down, I just focused on driving."

And what a masterful performance he delivered. Nine newcomers took part in that session, and Lindblad not only clocked the fastest lap amongst all debutants but secured an impressive sixth position overall.

He finished a tenth of a second quicker and two spots ahead of Yuki Tsunoda, who boasts five years of F1 expertise, in the sister Red Bull. Lindblad, who only turned 18 in August, said: "There were a few mistakes, but I think I did a decent lap in the end. The main priority was just to not make any mistakes and give good feedback to the team, so I think from that side it has gone well. It's quite nice to be near the top of the timesheets."

For the latest breaking stories and headlines, sign up to our Daily Express F1 newsletter, or join our WhatsApp community here.

Regarding demonstrating his readiness to compete in F1, there was little more Lindblad could have achieved during that session. Red Bull are anticipated to finalise their 2026 driver lineup following this weekend's racing in Mexico City. Isack Hadjar appears certain to become Verstappen's future teammate, recognition for what has been an exceptionally impressive debut campaign for the Frenchman.

Lindblad has maintained frontrunner status for one of the vacant Racing Bulls positions for a considerable time, despite a modest maiden Formula 2 season. Veteran super adviser Helmut Marko remained tight-lipped on the matter, though he acknowledged being "very impressed" by the teenager's Friday showing.

Lindblad himself was equally guarded, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver if selected, whilst acknowledging uncertainty about his preparedness. He said: "I've come through the ranks fast. I'm used to being thrown in the deep end and figuring it out. To sit here and tell you now if I'm ready, I don't know, but I've got that experience. I believe in myself that, if that's the case, I'll find a way."