Arvid Lindblad highlights 'different position' to past F1 rookies

Arvid Lindblad has pinpointed the “different position” he is in compared to other F1 rookies who have come before him in recent years.

Lindblad will make his grand prix debut in March later this year at the Australian Grand Prix, stepping up to a full-time drive with Racing Bulls.

The Briton will be paired up against Liam Lawson, who is entering his second full-time season in F1.

However, Lindblad believes his rapid ascent up the racing ladder, which started with a progression from karting in late 2022, puts him in a unique position.

“I haven’t really thought about it, I don’t really think about my team-mate,” Lindblad told Sky F1.

“That’s the one guy you’re compared against, but realistically for me, you talk about preparation - I’m in a little bit of a different position to a lot of the guys who have come through.

“Yes, I’m prepared, but three years ago I was in karting. I’ve done one year in each category, so on that side, it’s all been very fast.”

Lindblad steps up to F1 this year following a run to sixth place in the drivers' standings during his rookie season in Formula 2.

His promotion comes right as the sport enters a new era under a brand new set of aerodynamic and power unit regulations.

Highlighting his preparation plans for the year ahead, Lindblad said: “For me, I’m just focused on learning as much as I can during this winter break and focusing on myself to work with the team.

“Realistically, there’s going to be so many new things, there’s going to be so much stuff I’m going to have to learn to get on top of.

“All that I’m thinking about is getting the most out of myself, putting myself in the best position possible, then we’ll see what happens.

“There are so many unknowns next year that it’s pointless for me talking about, ‘I want to be better than this guy or that guy’.

“I’m just focused on myself, working hard and giving myself the best preparation to start the year.”