Arvid Lindblad Impresses During Bahrain F1 Testing with Racing Bulls

The Racing Bulls team completed its pre-season testing program in Bahrain, with promising signs from rookie driver Arvid Lindblad. The testing period, following a shakedown in Spain, focused heavily on reliability and gathering data for the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season.

Lindblad’s Adaptation and Team Assessment

Arvid Lindblad expressed confidence in his preparation for his debut season, acknowledging the significant step up from Formula 2, particularly with the latest regulations. He emphasized the benefit of the expanded testing schedule, stating, “This year there’s three [tests], so that really helps me to get up to speed. I’m really trying to utilise these tests, and I’m looking forward to getting on track in Melbourne.”

Team Principal Alan Permane has been highly impressed with Lindblad’s performance, and attitude. Permane noted Lindblad’s speed and inquisitiveness, stating, “He’s done a fantastic job…We’re very comfortable with that, we understand he’s got the speed. But also on top of that, he’s bringing lots of inquisitiveness, he’s asking many questions, his debriefs are great, he’s doing everything we inquire of him at the moment.”

Testing Mileage and Performance

During the Bahrain pre-season tests, Racing Bulls focused on maximizing mileage. Mercedes led the mileage charts with 432 laps completed, closely followed by McLaren with 395 laps. Racing Bulls recorded 407 laps, placing them among the teams with the most extensive running as reported by Formula 1.

Red Bull Racing completed 3,636 kilometers over six days and 672 laps during the Bahrain tests according to Red Bull Racing, focusing on understanding the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains DM01 power unit.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

With pre-season testing concluded, teams are now preparing for the first race of the 2026 season at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, commencing with free practice on March 6th. The focus will be on refining car setups and translating the data gathered during testing into competitive performance.