Red Bull Racing has announced that Arvid Lindblad will replace Yuki Tsunoda during the first practice session at the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This change marks a continuing trend for the team, as Tsunoda needs to fulfill the mandatory requirement of allowing another driver to take his place before the season concludes.
Mandatory Rookie Sessions in Formula 1
Starting in 2025, Formula 1 mandates that teams must allocate at least two free practice sessions for rookie drivers per car. Consequently, teams must manage scheduling for these sessions wisely. Most teams will need to designate four weekends to accommodate this rule, ensuring at least one experienced driver is present for every session.
Red Bull’s Recent Practice Session Allocations
- Max Verstappen has already ceded two practice sessions in 2025.
- In Bahrain, Verstappen allowed Ayumu Iwasa to drive in his place.
- Verstappen also skipped a session in Mexico, where Lindblad took over.
This Abu Dhabi practice session will mark Lindblad’s second time replacing Tsunoda, having previously driven during the British Grand Prix weekend.
Future Implications for Lindblad
Arvid Lindblad, who will also be racing alongside Verstappen in Abu Dhabi, is regarded as a strong candidate for a potential seat with the main Red Bull team in 2026. His current involvement with Red Bull, rather than the second team, highlights the team’s forward-looking strategy. Despite not gaining as much experience with the team in the 2025 car, the impending regulatory changes for 2026 diminish the importance of this experience.
Upcoming Testing Schedule
After the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, teams will participate in a testing session on the following Tuesday, allowing both Lindblad and Iwasa to further showcase their talents. It is anticipated that both drivers will trade cars during this test session.
As Red Bull continues to navigate the evolving landscape of Formula 1 regulations, the implications for their young drivers remain significant, particularly in light of upcoming changes aimed at fostering new talent in the sport.
