In a stunning twist ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, 17-year-old Arvid Lindblad has been confirmed as the official stand-in for Max Verstappen, following the Dutch driver’s one-race suspension handed down by the FIA. Red Bull’s rising star has responded with a powerful message that has stunned the Formula 1 world.
After accumulating 11 penalty points, Verstappen was left one point away from an automatic race ban. Following further review by the FIA, Verstappen was suspended from the Canadian GP for breaching sporting conduct during a late-race incident with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix.
Red Bull quickly submitted a special request to the FIA for a superlicence exemption, allowing Lindblad—still 17 and technically under the required minimum age of 18—to compete. The FIA approved the request citing “extraordinary talent and maturity shown in FIA feeder series.”
In his first public statement since the announcement, Lindblad addressed the F1 fanbase with raw honesty and excitement:
“This is a moment I’ve dreamed of my entire life, just not under these circumstances,” Lindblad posted on social media. “Replacing a legend like Max Verstappen is no small thing—I have the utmost respect for him, and I’ll give everything to honor the seat. To all the fans: I’m ready.”
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner backed the bold move, stating:
“Arvid has shown exceptional control, speed, and professionalism well beyond his years. The FIA has acknowledged that, and we fully trust him to represent the team in Montreal.”
The decision comes just days after intense debate around Verstappen’s controversial contact with Russell, which earned the reigning champion a 10-second time penalty and three superlicence points, tipping him into disciplinary danger.
Though Verstappen is expected to return for the Austrian GP, this unexpected chapter adds a dramatic twist to the 2025 season. Lindblad’s debut in Montreal will make him one of the youngest drivers ever to race in Formula 1—under the most high-pressure spotlight imaginable.
Now, the paddock waits to see: can the teenage prodigy rise to the occasion and deliver for Red Bull on one of the most iconic circuits in North America?