Racing Bulls issued dramatic podium F1 prediction: 'It wouldn't surprise me'

Former IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe has predicted Racing Bulls will achieve a podium result this year.

The Faenza-based squad has enjoyed a competitive first half to the campaign and has consistently placed inside the top 10.

It currently sits fifth in the constructors' championship, leading the midfield battle with a five-point advantage over Alpine.

However, it is the latter who is the only team outside the top four to score a podium this year, with Gasly classifying in third at the Monaco Grand Prix.

But Hinchcliffe believes it may soon be joined by Racing Bulls, stating Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad have long been in a position to capitalise on a front-runner shortcoming.

When asked to deliver a bold prediction for the second half of the year, Hinchcliffe told F1: “A Racing Bulls podium. 

“Not unlike how Hadjar pulled one off last season for the Faenza squad, I feel there is a chance for one this season with how well that team have developed and how strong both drivers are at the moment. 

“I’m not going to say which one I think could be the more likely candidate, simply because I don’t know. 

“Both are delivering at a very high level throughout the weekends, and if things fall just right – maybe in our first rain-affected race of the year – it wouldn’t surprise me if either Lawson or Lindblad were there to capitalise.”