F1: Introducing Formula 1’s lone 2026 F1 rookie driver

As just how far will this new F1 Hotschue’ progress?

 

Formula 1 Diehards will already know that this year’s F1 Grid features only one new rookie driver, after last year’s Mega’ class of four, i.e.; Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto, Jack Doohan, remember Him Y’all? And Isack Hadjar. As Oliver Bearman wasn’t a rookie due to having raced three Grands Prix in 2024. And Franco Colapinto had replaced Logan Sargent at Williams the previous season…

 

Arvid Lindblad

Team: Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula 1 Team

Nationality: United Kingdom

Birthplace: Virginia Water, Surrey

DOB: August 8, 2007; Age: 18

Car No. 41

 

Once again, another fresh face Formula Uno rookie Pilote I know nothing about. Other than reportedly He’s another Red Bull Junior Driver prodigy. Having read that current Racing Bulls F1 team Boss Alan Bat’ Permane says He’s very similar to Isack Hadjar, i.e.; Calm, cool ‘n collected. Asking many questions and soaking in everything like a sponge, whilst simply getting on with the “Job”.

 

Arvid’s father Stefan is Swedish, wile His Mum’ Anita is of Indian decent, along with a grandmother who was one of the oldest practicing GP’s in England. Noting He’d like to work on improving His Swedish and Hindi language skills. While He also has a younger brother named Amil.

 

Arvid’s father gave Him a Scooter’ (Motorcycle) at Age 3 before switching to Go Karts at Age 5, beginning at Daytona Sandown Park.

 

In 2015 at Age 9, Arvid began competitive Karting with His mentor being Oliver Rowlan, before winning the 2020 WSK Super Master Series OKJ Class.

 

That was the first of His multiple Karting championships, joining the Red Bull Junior Driver Academy in 2021.

 

Lindblad made His single seater debut in 2022 in the Italian Formula 4 Championship, driving for Van Amersfoort Racing. In 2023, Lindblad secured His first single seater victory in the UAE F4 championship at the Dubai Autodrome.

 

Next, Arvid contested the Italian F4 championship, driving for Prema Racing. Collecting six wins, but ultimately finishing third overall after His massive points lead evaporated.

 

Another win came in the Euro 4 championship, followed by a stellar weekend at Macau. Securing the F4 pole and winning His qualification race. Punctuated by winning the main race the day after.

 

For 2024, Lindblad remained with Prema Racing, graduating to the Formula 3 championship. His teammates were Gabriele Mini and Dino Beganovic.

 

Lindblad scored a Sprint race win in Bahrain. Then claiming His first Feature race win at Barcelona. Before making further history at Silverston, where He became the first F3 driver to win the “Double”. Taking wins in both the Sprint and Feature races and vaulting to second in the championship.

 

Yet what seems to be a tendency of Lindblad’s, He once again faltered down the stretch, not scoring any mor “needed” points results in the final three rounds, and dropping to fourth overall at season’s end.

 

Yet Arvid “Broke His Duck” by crushing the Competizione in the 2025 Formula Regional Oceania Championship with six poles and six wins. Winning His first title by 56points over Kiwi’ Zack Scoular. Whilst Nikita Johnson, who’d been second much of the season, slid to third overall, 65 points adrift of Lindblad.

 

As Johnson will  contest this year’s Indy NXT championship driving for Cape Motorsports Powered by ECR. Along with a fulltime drive for Rahal Letterman Racing in IMSA GTD Pro, aboard their factory McLaren 720S Evo.

 

Lindblad graduated to Formula 2, joining Campos Racing for the 2025 season. Scoring His first win in the Jeddah Sprint race, after Richard Verschoor was penalized.

 

Barcelona was Arvid’s high water mark of the season. Claiming two pole positions and scoring the feature win at Campos home track.

 

Afterwards, a spate of collisions, a disquification, etc. Lindblad ultimately slid to sixth overall by season’s end. Although claiming His second Sprint race victory in Abu Dhabi, netting three wins overall that year.

 

As Arvid’s wins in Formula 3 and Formula 2 made Him the youngest driver ever to do so in both series…

 

Having been a Red Bull Junior Driver member since 2021, Lindblad drove His very first Formula 1 chassis, a Red Bull RB8 during a demonstration run in Houston in 2024.

 

He completed His first private test in an AlphaTauri AT04 at Imola the following February. A second test in the same chassis followed in June.

 

Lindblad took part in a promotional “gimmick” of racing three Leeds United F.C. “Footballers” on foot in a Red Bull RB7 at Elland Raud, also that June. Before Red Bull requested an early FIA Super License for the 17yr old, a la Kimi Antonelli’s earlySuper License dispensation.

 

Arvid made His Free Practice debut at the British Grand Prix, finishing P14 in the morning’s (Free Practice) FP1 session.

 

 

Presumably Lindblad gained Attenzione by finishing sixth in FP1 in Mexico City as Max Verstappen’s “replacement”. Before a third and final FP outing in the season finale on Yas Isle as Yuki Tsunoda’s replacement.

 

Then in December, Racing Bulls announced Lindblad as Liam Lawson’s new Racing Bulls teammate for 2026, before taking part in the post Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Young Drivers test session… 

And now, All the remaining Open Wheel Seats are Filled

Testing-Testing, 1-2. Has Dale Coyne actually named His second driver, Cough-Cough?

 

Yeah Ladies ‘n Germs’, your two left Thumbs Scribe Tomaso is another day late, and definitely many dollars shorter after another enjoyable trek to thee Valley of the Sun! Without even realizing I was visiting during the IndyCar test at Phoenix Raceway.

 

Hence no riveting St Pete IndyCar recaps here Folks…

 

Perhaps its just Mwah, but does anybody ever notice how “Sharp” formula 1 is? And doesn’t waste time making decisions or announcing changes. Which perhaps is partially due to the scope of it being a multi-billions, as in “B” business…

 

Although we know that Dale Coyne will have to name its second, Err “lead” driver by February 8th, since IndyCar holds it’s first Open test on Sebring’s “Short” road course February 9-10, Righto?

 

Although perhaps Valentines Day is the new Halloween for Dale Coyne, Hya!

 

Meanwhile, Wayback’ on December 2nd, Red Bull announced the expected. That F1 rookie sensation Isack Hadjar would be moving up to the Big Bulls, replacing Yuki Tsunoda. And that 18yr old Arvid Lindblad would graduate to the ‘lil Bullz’, aka Racing Bulls as Liam Lawson’s new teammate.

 

While Tsunoda’s confined to the dubious role of test and reserve driver at Red Bull. And Arse-sumedly Racing Bulls? As Tsunoda’s contracted to Red Bull for 2026.

 

On Dec 4th, Haas announced that beginning in 2026, it would be renamed as TGR Haas F1 Team, thanks to an expanded partnership with Toyota. Who Haas already has a technical partnership with.

 

As TGR stands for Toyota Gazoo Racing, who are also title sponsors for Hitech’s Formula 2 and Formula 3 teams, beginning last year.

 

As Mucho Attenzione will be focused upon Hitech TGR’s F2 team this year, since Colton Herta will drive the team’s No. 3 entry. With rising Japanese Star Ritomo Miyata aboard the No. 4 spec Dallara F2 2024 Mecachrome racecar.

 

Then two days after season’s end, when the Post Abu Dhabi GP Young Drivers test was being held. (Dec 9th) Der Helmut’, aka Helmut Marco, Red Bull’s longtime special advisor and Junior Driver Impresario tendered His resignation after 20 years with Red Bull. Having been instrumental with bringing Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen to Red Bull Racing.

 

Helmet Marco leaves Red Bull

 

Although Der Helmut was also famously known for discarding Red Bull Junior drivers like tepid bathwater, Ja Volt!

 

Slinking back across thoust Gory Puddle. Stateside, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLLR) gave IndyCar rookie Mick Schumacher his first Oval test at Miami’s Homestead 1.5-mile Speedway, on February 4th.

 

“It was a great first day”, as Mick Schumacher completes first Oval laps at Homestead

 

The above article was posted on Racer.com, which refuses to update its website to comply with current Web Content Accessibility Guideline standards. Specifically WCAG 2.2 to enable ease of access for Blind or Visually Impaired readers.

 

Then as noted, the whole Enchilada gathered in Florida. When IndyCar held its first Open Test on Sebring’s “short” road course layout February 9-10.

 

Then, ten of the  previous year’s eleven IndyCar teams, excluding Prema Racing sent their transporters off to thee Valley of the Sun one week later. When IndyCar held its second Open test at Phoenix International Raceway. (PIR) Yeah, I know its just Phoenix Raceway or whatever now? But old habits die hard, especially having gone Thar over 30yrs ago for a CART IndyCar race, when Jack Vanilla, ergo Jacques Villeneuve tried taking out the Goodyear pedestrian crossover bridge!

 

VIDEO: 1994 Phoenix Hiro Matsushita Jacques Villeneuve Crash

 

Uhm, IndyCar held court on Phoenix’s 1.0-mile “Crooked” (Dog-leg) Oval between February 17-18, with new & improved Flintstone front tyres.

 

Interesting how IndyCar and Formula 1 pre-season testing overlapped, before IndyCar’s St Pete season opener on March 1st. Where ’Ol DJ WillyP’, ergo Will Power hop to be celebrating His 45th birthday in style with another trophy!

 

Then Formula 1 heads Down Under to Bloody Melbourne on March 8th for its season’s kickoff Australian Grand Prix. Where everyone whose got Apple TV will be curious over the new fangled F1 machinery…

 

And saying What About Me? MotoGP kicked off its season in Thailand on March 1st at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, another “Tilkie”, ergo Herman Tilke designed race course.

 

Oh yeah, almost forgot. Wasn’t that worth the wait to find out Romain Grosjean is Dale Coyne’s second driver? 

F1: Where will Horner go Now?

And can Red Bull turn around its Sinking Ship?

 

Have to say it came as a surprise to Mwah, reading the news over Christian Horner, the Pied Piper of Red Bull Racing being released of His duties as CEO effective immediately on Wednesday morning, July 9th.

 

Horner, alleged of “Bullying” and sexually harassing a female Red Bull employee, His personal assistant at the start of the 2024 Formula 1 season, in which the Daily Mail is calling a sext texting scandal, claims that Horner has gotten His “Cumuffins”, which I find overly rich…

 

As Horner was cleared twice from this sexual harassment allegation by two separate Barristers, and had seemed to weather the storm, especially after Max Verstappen won His fourth, consecutive World Championship last year.

 

While I do not condone any form of sexual harassment, I find the Hypocrisy of one of His fiercest critic, once fondly known as Jos the Boss Verstappen dubious at best! Since Verstappen Senior seemed to be spearheading the charge for Horner’s dismissal over a year ago.

 

As why is no one writing about Jos’s former multiple Domestic Assaults? Having surrendered to Dutch police in January 2012, spending two weeks in Jail for Attempted Murder! Having supposedly tried to run down His former girlfriend, before being released due to lack of evidence.

 

This followed His ex-girlfriend being taken to hospital in November, 2011, after physical beating by Jos. For which the former 24 year old girlfriend, when Jos was 39 said had happened before.

 

Not to mention being fined and given three months suspended jail sentence in 2008 for domestic violence against his ex-wife, Max’s Mum. Or being convicted of Assault for breaking a man’s skull at a Karting track some ten-plus years prior…

 

Although I’m in no way defending the Dutchman’s unscrupulous antics. I’m now wondering if the Headline about the team imploding if Horner remained in power after the sex-texting scandal by Jos, stemmed from His personal experience?

 

Like Him or not, Horner led Red Bull to eight F1 Drivers and six Constructors Championships over His twenty-plus tenue as leader of Red Bull. Not to mention 124 Grands Prix victories in 405 starts, the fourth most ever by a Formula 1 team.

 

Therefore, at age 51, I cannot see Horner being finished in F1, and three current F1 teams jump out immediately to Mwah as possible landing destinations. Even though it sounds like Horner is on mandatory “gardening Leave” for the moment.

 

Horner has been rumoured to be on Ferrari’s radar previously, which He’s turned la Scuderia down previously to stay at Red Bull. Seeing currently embattled Team Principal Frederic Vausser landing the job.

 

But if F1 Pundit Ralf Schumacher is correct over Horner not appreciating criticism, then Ferrari seems like a bad fit. Since the Italian press is constantly castigating Scuderia Ferrari over its poor performance, and continuously demanding the dismissal of whomever is in charge! Not to mention uprooting wife Geri Halliwell and family to Italy.

 

No, for Mwah the two most likely future destinations would seem to be either Alpine or Cadillac.

 

The move to Cadillac would be brilliant, giving them instant creditability. Not to mention somebody in charge with a winning pedigree. Although not sure how this would work out for current boss Graeme Lowdon?

 

Although again, the TWG Group seems intent on running the F1 operation out of its Fishers complex in the future, implying that Horner would need to move to another country. Unless perhaps Lowdon became Deputy Team Principal and oversaw the Stateside operation?

 

While I’d say the most logical choice would be Alpine, provided it gave Horner a long enough leash to turn the franchise around. Since they’ve got a nasty habit of dumping leadership routinely!

 

Although reportedly, Horner is good friends with HMS Monogram’, aka flavour Flav’, nee Flavio Briatore, who may be quick to snap up the services of His friend?

 

Whilst what about Steve Nielsen? Just confirmed as the team’s new Managing Director, effective September 1st. As Nielsen will be responsible for day-to-day operations.

 

But being a truly British team based at Enstone, and supposedly with updated premises, this would be the most convenient for Horner. As who knows where it could lead?

 

While you’d have to think that Aston Martin’s a longshot, since I think there’s already too many Cooks in the kitchen! And how would Adrian Newey feel about re-uniting with Horner?

 

As only time will tell where Messer Horner lands, provided He does return to Formula 1 in the future, which feels inevitable to Mwah…

 

Meanwhile, Laurent Mekies, previous Boss of Racing Bulls takes over as CEO of Red Bull Racing. As the Frenchman began His Formula 1 career with Arrows, and engineered several F1 drivers at Minardi and Scuderia toro Rosso. He spent a brief stint as the FIA’s Safety Director and Deputy Race Director. Then moved to Ferrari as its Sporting Director before becoming Racing Bulls Team Principal.

 

Alan “Bat” Permane becomes Racing Bulls new Team Principal. Which will be interesting to see how the ‘lil bulls progress?

 

As Racing Bulls were currently tied for seventh place with Aston Martin on 36 Markers apiece, in the vaunted Constructors Championship before Mekies moved to Red Bull. With Sauber vaulting five points ahead to sixth, thanks to Nico Hulkenberg’s excellent third place finish at Silverstone. 

Do “One Off” liveries matter?

The iconic “Yellow submarine” that Scott McLaughlin captured pole aboard last year at Indianapolis. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Golly, that sure is a purdy lookin’ racecar… Whale’ it was before ScottyMac’ wadded it up during Sunday morning’s Fast Twelve Shootout practice session, Youza!

 

Yeah, I know Y’all are saying but what about this past weekend’s Indianapolis 500 qualifying,  Righto? Which certainly didn’t lack for drama!

 

Being Blind, have I reminded Y’all lately? Obviously I cannot “See” what all of the special One-off liveries look like? Or if they’re flattering or not?

 

During the Miami Grand Prix, Formula 1 fans were up in arms over la Scuderia’s One-off livery interspersing title sponsor HP’s blue and white into the traditional rosso livery, which I know I scribbled ‘bout here on No Fenders a year ago…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2024/05/ferrari-turns-blue-chasing-red-bull.html

 

As the Ferrari SF-25 sported HP’s blue and white on it’s engine cover, rear wing and wheels in a nod to their one year partnership, which began at Miami last year. With Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton wearing with and blue overalls as part of the One-off asymmetric livery.

 

As one disgusted Tifosi wrote that it was like putting pineapple on pizza! Another saying it could be the worst livery ever. And another saying that Ferrari was morphing into Williams in front of our very eyes on Social media!

 

Referring to those iconic, and good looking HP sponsored Williams BMW racecars of the early Ought’s…

 

Meanwhile, Racing Bulls ran a One-off bright pink racecar at Miami, promoting it’s Energy drinks owners new summer peach flavour, including the drivers wearing magenta overalls.

 

While Sauber also joined the Miami Party-theme train. Running what was called an “Art Car”. Which apparently saw the teams traditional colours “Shaken, not Stirred” in a blender? Although the press release claims that what appears to be dripping wet neon green and black hues were applied to it’s C45 chassis. Along with the drivers overalls, pit wall and garages, to commemorate Miami’s vivid Art scene…

 

Arse-suming Y’all know about Arrow McLaren’s One-off “Artic” white Indianapolis 500 liveries, part of this year’s Never Stop Racing campaign. As the Nos. 5-7 Arrow McLaren’s will feature a base coat of white with driver specific colours, while Kyle Larson’s NO. 17 will be white with blue accents.

 

As have to say to Mwah, I think their 60th anniversary McLaren Indy 500 racecar liveries of 2023 were far superior! But what do I know, especially since I cannot see any of them, Y’all…

 

Yeah, I understand why we’ve got to wait until after the Indy road course’s tune-up Grand Prix is run before we can start dolling out those One-off Indianapolis 500 liveries. As this makes me think of the Super bowl and everybody Ah-Waitin’ and grading that year’s commercials.

 

As don’t know who’ll have either the best or worst Indy 500 livery? But when I think of worst, I immediately think of Count Dracula’, Err Rinus VeeKay’s black ‘n yellow polka dot thrown in a blender mobile from a few years ago, Hya!

 

Whilst we know that Conor Daly won’t be running any Polka Dot block chain El Speciale livery this year. Although it’ll be funny if He runs a Union 76 theme car when I believe Shell is the official fuel partner of IndyCar, Righto?

 

Having since learned that Daly’s car is running AM/PM sponsorship, along with Circle K, and possibly ARCO? Since I think they’re all owned by Atlantic Richfield Petroleum.

 

Whilst I Arse-sume that at least ScottyMac’, aka Scott Mclaughlin will once again be driving the iconic Pennzoil “Yellow submarine”. With no idea what reigning two-times Indy 500 winner Josef Schlick’ Newgarden will carry? Although presume Will Power will have some El Speciale Verizon “paint” scheme again, Eh?

 

Thus, not knowing half of this year’s Indy 500 liveries. Although I did learn who the obscure primary sponsors of Castroneves and Marco Andretti’s rides. Along with Marcus Ericsson’s Allegra car said to “Pop!” And that beautiful #51 Miller High Life car of Jacob Abel’s unfortunately not celebrating the “High Life” on Sunday.

 

 And thanks to the thoroughly GOOBERED, Cough-Cough, Uhm “New & Improved”, NOT! Racer website, with much difficulty, I learned that Abel’s Dale Coyne Racing teammate Rinus VeeKay’s primary sponsor is askROI. With NO askROI jokes here about where’d the missing three miles per hour go?

 

Busting up in laughter when IndyCar Radio Network’s Turn 3 reporter Jake The Riddler’ Query said VeeKay’s sponsor is askROI, and He’s asking where the speed went right now…

 

Whilst obviously, I cannot see what they look like? And hence, cannot be swayed by their marketing efforts. Or tell Y’all which cars look “Cool” and which don’t. Or how well this marketing exercise works?

 

As Derek Daly had a good point about the lack of “brand” recognition that’s long been IndyCar’s hallmark in the following Racer article.

 

https://racer.com/2025/05/08/a-letter-to-roger-penske-color-confusion-and-the-quest-for-young-indycar-fans

 

But I do think it’s cool that the Prema Racing cars run in an Italian Flag motif of white, green and red. As how ‘bout that Robert Shwartzman!

 

Are, You, Ready, to G-O Racing?         

F1: The Sting of Max

Ah, to “Float like A Butterfly”. Uhm, where’s’ Good ‘Ol George Foremen to Knock Yuhs Out!

 

After wading thru the pandemonium Ye Bloody Daily Mail rag was frothing about over thoust Axing of Liam Lawson. I have to say I mused to Thyself how la Scuderia must be most content to have the pressure taken off of them regarding their first ever double disqualification from a Grand Prix, eh? Although Ferrari will need to drastically improve at Suzuka, results-wise. Seriously, lagging behind Williams in the Constructors standings, Yikes!

 

Whilst I doubt I’ll ever be a fan of Max Blunderhead’s, nee Naximilian Verstappen. You cannot underestimate His driving prowess. As last year’s Sao Paolo Grand Prix still clearly stands out as His best drive to me.

 

Not to mention the immense amount ‘O pressure the Dutchman relieved for Red Bull by winning from pole on Sunday…

 

No, what peeves me off is the Free pass the Hierarchy at Red Bull Racing seemingly is getting somewhat, with it’s Mega’ Damage control spin job. Touting how this is being done to save Lawson’s future and for the good of the team, Bully!

 

Since I can no longer recall how long I’ve been scribbling here on No Fenders about der Helmut tossing out drivers like luke warm bathwater, Ja Volt! As how far back do we wish to go?

 

While the Pied Piper of F1 Chris Horner serenely states that they’re looking forward to Yuki Tsunoda’s vast wealth of experience to help sort out the troublesome RB21, Seriously? Hmm, why didn’t Horner and Dr. Helmut Marco see fit to put the Japanese driver in straight away? Or does the reported increase of Honda money have something to do with this change of heart?

 

As the names Scott Speed, Vitantonio Liuzzi and Sebastien Bourdais immediately spring to mind. While being reminded of Jaime Alguersuari, Jean-eric Vergne, Sebastian Buemi, etc.

 

Not to mention the harshness Nyck de Vries suffered during His ten race outing at Alphatauri. Before somebody named DannyRic’, aka Daniel Ricciardo replaced Him, and so it goes…

 

While it’s also been well documented over the fortunes of Maximus’ Hothead’s past Red Bull F1 teammates Pierre Gasly who was swapped mid-season for Alexander Albon. And then Albon being demoted to test and reserve driver in favour of Sergio Perez. All suffering crushing blows to their F1 careers as Verstappen’s teammate at the Big Bulls’ outfit since the Dutchman’s arrival in 2016.

 

Going back even further, it was also pointed out how Daniil Kvyat suffered a similar fate accompli as Lawson has. Although the Russian driver was at least given a full season before being demoted to Scuderia Toro Rosso in order to make way for Formula 1 Wunderkind Max Verstappen. While Gasly also suffered the same demotion before ultimately moving onto Alpine…

 

The saddest statement or indictment of Red Bull’s driver blunder is the fact that Lawson lasted only half as long as Japanese driver Yuji Ide did for Super aguri in 2006, Youza! Especially since I’d rate the 23yr old Kiwi’ Lawson as a far superior talent vs. Ide!

 

While to underscore the brilliance of Verstappen, to date Max has won 64 of Red Bull’s 123 victories, which I believe equates to over 50%! Not to mention His 41 pole positions equals more than one third of the team’s 104 to date. As Red Bull quickly approaches it’s 400th Grand Prix, a mere pittance vs. Ferrari’s All-time ledger of 1,100 and counting! Although Red Bull is only celebrating it’s 20th Anniversary in Formula 1 vs. Ferrari having raced since 1950.

 

While at least Marco’s willing to admit that Red Bull is missing the genious of Adrian Newey, as even Max says this year’s RB21 is a handful to drive!

 

Yet Tsunoda’s placement at Red Bull can surely only be seen as a stop-gap measure with Honda becoming Aston Martin’s Werks’ Power Unit (PU) supplier beginning next year. While Honda Racing Company president Koji Watanabe  has already confirmed that Honda’s funding of drivers at Red Bull will cease at year’s end. Thus presumably leaving the door open for either Lawson to return, or Isack Hadjar to join the roiling Hot driver barbeque at Red Bull.

 

But I’d say that Red Bull’s bigger problem is keeping Verstappen, since inevitably the Dutchman will either move to another F1 team or retire from the sport, leaving Red Bull in a vacuum! As Red Bull seemingly has nobody in it’s vaunted Junior Academy to emulate Max’s impressive winning tally for the Energy Drinks company…

 

As Grizzled F1 Journo’ Joe Saward notes, only two Red Bull Junior Academy drivers have won Grands Prix for Red Bull, i.e.; Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo. With Pierre Gasly winning once for Scuderia AlphaTauri, whilst Vettel made history winning both Toro Rosso and Red Bull’s maiden Grand Prix victory, if I remember correctly?

 

Meanwhile one of Red Bull’s two Blowhard, as ironically Joe Saward noted being somewhere in Hornerwald prior to the latest Red Bull Messopotamia. Noted that it wouldn’t be surprising for Lawson to outqualify Tsunoda in the Racing bull, which is noted for being quick in Qualie’.

 

And talk about pressure, as Yuki will be under immense scrutiny by His Home Nation’s Fans…

 

As this gives Alpine’s rookie Jack Doohan a slight reprieve, making me think of the following scenario. Imagine that Williams had justdumpedCarlos Sainz Jr. who’s reportedly been struggling for pace in the FW47 after just two races in favour of Alpine/Williams reserve driver Franco Colapinto…

 

As the Box score will show that Tsunoda finished P12 at Suzuka, with Lawson P17. Although one race doesn’t make a very large sample size. And in fairness to Lawson, Yuki’s in His fifth full season having just made His 90th start in Japan. While Lawson has only raced two partial seasons as a replacement driver, having just capped His 14th start

 

 As Formula 1 is a brutal sport, perhaps even Blood Sport, Eh? As the $64k question now is how well does Lawson progress from this setback? Or will the Red Bull Hierarchy see fit to replace Lawson at season’s end?

 

While “Wouldn’t It be Ironic”, (Alanis) if Verstappen and Tsunoda became future teammates at Aston Martin… 

Raging Bulls Showdown in Suzuka

But Don’t forget about Monsieur Hadjar, Wee-Wee!

 

Even though it was Alpine’s Jack Doohan’s Mega’ crash which arguably was thee Talking Point of Friday’s two practice sessions at Suzuka. Much Attenzione was being paid to the intra-squad Scrum of Red Bull’s “Junior” drivers, i.e.; Yuki Tsunoda v Liam Lawson. For which I decided to follow along…

 

Tsunoda wowed the Home crowd straight out of the box during (Free Practice) FP1, finishing an electrifying sixth for Red Bull, with newly demoted Liam Lawson P13 back at Racing Bulls. Yet Lawson flipped the script in FP2, with an impressive fifth, whilst Tsunoda was a lowly P18, the first driver in the 1:30’s.

 

Yet even more impressive was Lawson’s Racing Bulls teammate Isack Hadjar, who finished third in FP2, while the Wunderkind they’re all chasing, i.e.; Max Verstappen was eighth in FP2. With Max fifth and Hadjar eight inFP1.

 

Saturday’s FP3 saw the Red Bull quartet led by Max Blunderhead in fifth. Followed by Tsunoda ninth, Hadjar tenth and Lawson 12th.

 

Qualifying saw the two drivers not on our “Watch list”, i.e.; Verstappen and Hadjar once again outperforming the two Red Bull protagonists. With Hadjar getting much made over His apparent discomfort during Qualie’s Q1 session, when apparently His lap belt(s) were too tight!

 

Sky sports lead “Punter” Kroftie’, aka David Kroft deftly let Theodorre, not Lenny Kravitz due the heavy lifting on this subject. With Kravitz musing over how apparently Hadjar was in immense pain from His belts being too tight upon His lower extremity. Saying He wasn’t sure if His boxers or briefs were balling up underneath His Firesuit. Before saying that guest Pundit Jacques Villeneuve had more experience on the matter, before brief banter about fireproof boxers…

 

Whilst Kravitz prattled on about non-ferrous materials in regards to the F1 chassis titanium skid blocks sending sparks into the overly dry grass and igniting multiple grass fires! For which there inturn caused multiple Red Flags to be thrown in order for workers to dose each fire…

 

Reportedly the rookie Frenchman got the matter straightened out between Qualie’ sessions, feeling much better during Q2 and once again outperforming, by qualifying a fine seventh!

 

Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson were in lockstep with each other. Ultimately Lawson qualified one place ahead of a dejected Tsunoda. With Lawson P13 and Tsunoda P14 after Williams Carlos Sainz Jr. was demoted three places for blocking Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton on a “Hot” lap, and would start P15.

 

Verstappen put in what Frederico Suave, nee Fred Alonso called a magical lap, as nobody, including MaxiMillions’ saw Him pulling a Wabbit’ from His Nomex underwear, HaHa!

 

Pipping McLaren’s Lando Norris by one hundredth second for pole on His final “Flyer” qualifying lap! Being Blunderhead’s 41st pole position, for which Verstappen was obviously overjoyed.

 

And then the “Money” round, nee Sunday’s race certainly wasn’t worth staying up until thoust wee hours of the morning! As I opted for the Sunday morning encore presentation Chock-Oh-Block Full of the Mothers Shoe Polish lady Nicole Briscoe cooing in our ears…

 

As I found it to be a very  dull race, dare I say another F1 Snoozefest? As Verstappen led wire-to-wire from pole. With the only time Lando Norris got close to overtaking Max was during the duo’s lone pitstop, where they came out virtually wheel-to-wheel, with Norris going onto the grass in order to kee from hitting Max. Before it was Game over!

 

Isack Hadjar dropped one position to Lewis Hamilton, finish eighth. While Tsunoda trundled home P12. Obviously not what Yuki or His adoring Japanese fans wished for.

 

While Liam Lawson went backwards during the race, finishing two positions behind another under fire driver, Alpine’s Jack Doohan. With Lawson finishing a rather lackluster P17… 

Japan’s Next Wave?

Although will any of these prospects succeed to the Pinnicle of Motorsport?

 

As my working title was Japanese Drivers Logjam…

 

Japan has a long, storied history with formula 1. As the very first Japanese driver to Enter a international Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) sanctioned race fifty years ago was Hiroshi Fushida, who failed on both of His entries with the uncompetitive Maki Engineering F101 normally aspirated 3.0-liter Ford-Cosworth DFV V-8 racecar.

 

Hiroshi’s Cossie’ lump’ “Done blown Up!” at that year’s Dutch Grand Prix, for which the team didn’t have a spare motor! And then He failed to qualify (DNQ) at the 1975 British Grand Prix.

 

Hiroshi also contested the SCCA’s Can Am and Trans Am series Stateside. And made history alongside countryman Tetsu Ikuzawa, when they became the first two Japanese drivers to compete in the 24 Heurs du Mans. Driving a Mazda  Wankel rotary powered Sigma MS73 (SARD) in the 1973 event.

 

Japan’s first Formula 1 race was the epic 1976 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji Speedway, where a further four Japanese drivers entered their country’s inaugural Grand Prix; Masahiro Hasemi, Kazuyoshi Hoshino, Masani Kuwashina and Noritake Takahara.

 

Although reputedly Kuwashina’s sponsorship Cheque failed to materialize, scratching Him from competing, i.e. DNS. (Did Not Start) Being replaced by Hans Binder.

 

Whilst Hasemi, Hoshino and Takahara all contested the race, becoming Japan’s first three Formula 1 drivers. Although I’d surmise this accomplishment was totally overshadowed by that year’s Mega’ F1 Drivers championship showdown between Niki Lauda and Jame Hunt, which is wonderfully documented in ‘lil Ronnie Howard’sexcellent Rush movie…

 

Kazuyoshi Hoshino’s nickname was “The Fastest Man in Japan”, which is pretty “Heady” suff!

 

Reportedly there have been 21 Japanese drivers to attempt a Grand Prix to date, with 18 making starts. Which I won’t attempt chronicling! Other than three have stood on the third step of the podium. First Aguri Suzuki in1990. Followed by arguably Japan’s “Greatest” driver Takuma sato in 2004. And finally K-Squared’, aka Kamui Kobayashi in 2012. With Kamui now firmly established as a Sports Car star; including a World Endurance Championship (WEC) title and 24 Heurs du Mans and Rolex 24 wins to His credit.

 

Currently, Yuki Tsunoda is the only Japanese driver competing in Formula 1, entering His fifth season driving for thee ‘lil bullz’, aka Racing Bulls. Which you’d have to say that Tsunoda’s inclusion in Formula 1 is backed by Red Bull’s engine, Err Power Unit (PU) supplier Honda. Even if Honda “withdrew” from full Factory F1 involvement at the end of 2021.

 

Yuki did finish a very respectable fourth overall in FIA Formula 3, and third overall in Formula 2 with Four poles and three wins before graduating to then AlphaTauri in 2021. Yet with Honda becoming Aston Martin’s Werk’s PU supplier beginning next year, the only option I “See” for Tsunoda is becoming one of Aston Martin’s reserve drivers.

 

But Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 FIA F2 champion has been the team’s reserve driver since 2023. And obviously neither Fernando Alonso or Lance Stroll seem intent on departing Formula 1 anytime soon…

 

Ironically, Tsunoda turns 25 one day after Helio Castroneves 50th birthday on May 10th…

 

Ritomo Miyata who turns 26 this August, appears to be Japan’s best bet for joining the F1 Circus in the future. As Miyata will contest His sophomore season of F2 this year driving for ART Grand Prix. (#15) Having finished P19 overall last year for Rodin Motorsport.

 

Ritomo is a member of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Driver Challenge programme, along with being a multiple title winner. Having won both the Super formula and Super GT Championships in 2023. Along with the 2020 Super Formula Lights and 2016-2017 Japanese Formula 4 titles.

 

Miyata was diagnosed with Autism early in life and is an ardent “gamer”. Having won some 500 iSports races!

 

Thanks to Toyota’s technical partnership with the Haas F1 Team, Miyata tested a Haas VF-23 at Jerez recently. Where race drivers Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman ran one day apiece, with Ritomo getting valuable “Seat-time” at the end of each day.

 

Although Miyata’s trajectory seems aimed more for eventual Hypercar duty in the WEC for Toyota, unless a seat on the Formula 1 grid opens up…

 

Although Ayumu Iwasa, who currently competes in Super Formula might have something to say about that . As the 23yr old Red Bull Junior Driver and Honda Formula Dream Project member has already tallied two seasons in formula 2. Finishing fifth and fourth overall respectively between 2022-23. And finished fifth overall last year during His rookie Super Formula campaign.

 

Ayumu helped make “Waves” at last year’s Japanese grand Prix, driving in His first Free Practice outing during FP1. Driving alongside Racing Bulls “teammate” Tsunoda. Having last tested for RB during last year’s Abu Dhabi Young Drivers test.

 

Ryo Hirakawa (Age 31) is a Toyota Werks’ (TGR) FIA World Endurance Championship driver, having won two WEC titles along with the 2022 24 Hours of Le Mans. And was announced this January as an Alpine F1 test and reserve driver.

 

As I’m guessing the latter has something to do with team principal Oliver Oakes and Hitech Racing’s involvement with TGR in it’s Junior Open Wheel Racing categories. As Hitech TGR competes in both the FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3 Championships.

 

Interestingly, and this is purely conjecture on my part. But this arrangement gives Toyota two possible paths to future Formula 1 involvement. But that’s just pure conjecture Folks!

 

Lastly, Kakunoshin Ohta made His IMSA GTP debut at this year’s Rolex 24 as part of Meyer shank Racing’s No. 93 Acura ARX06 entry. As the 25yr old Japanese Sports Car driver will also drive the No. 93 at this year’s Watkins Glen and Indianapolis endurance rounds.

 

Kakunoshin also recently tested for era Motorsports, aboard it’s No. 18 LMP2 entry during the Pre-Sebring 12 Hours test in February. And was slated to ad further LMP2 outing to His busy 2025 schedule.

 

Then naturally, as I was putting this story to bed, word came that indeed Ohta would race for Era Motorsports at both the Sebring 12 Hours and later Road America races in the LMP2 category. With HRC US further cementing it’s “ties” with Era Motorsports in a collabourative effort to promote young Japanese drivers to Sports car racing. As Era has already restored previous Acura Sports Car prototypes for Historic Racing…

 

This is just further speculation. But with HRC US (Honda Racing Corporation) President David Salters recently noting how Honda would like to take it’s Acura GTP racecar to Le Mans, could we see Iwasa or Ohta as part of the drivers lineup? 

Presenting the 2025 Formula 1 Rookies Class

But who’ll come out on top. And who’ll perform best overall in their respective F1 careers?

 

Can the 2023 Formula 1 season really be that long ago? Or is it just due to the immeasurably long 24 Grands Prix calendar? That its hard to remember just two years ago we had four “Fresh Faced” F1 rookies on the grid.

 

Whilst I realize it’s a totally different era, but fifty years ago, there were 18 F1 rookies, including the three who failed to qualify. With a total of 63 drivers attempting to participate that season, Youza!

 

Whilst I’ll freely admit I know very little about any of this quintet ‘O aspiring Formula 1 drivers…

 

Gabriel Bortoleto

Team: Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber

Nationality: Brazilian

Birthplace: Osasco, Sao Paolo

DOB: October 14, 2004; Age: 20

Car No. 5

 

Interestingly, Gabriel’s father is the CEO and co-owner of Brazil’s Stock Car Pro series. Not to mention coming from a wealthy family, with part of their fortunes coming from creating an internet company that merged with Vero in 2023.

 

The family also runs the KTF Racing team in Stock Cars and Karting, and Gabriel’s elder brother Enzo formerly raced in F4 and British F3…

 

Gabriel began Karting at age seven and made His single seater debut in 2020, in the Italian Formula 4 series. Which seems to be one of the main proving grounds for aspiring racers

 

After stints in the Formula Regional European and Formula Asia series, Bortoleto graduated to the FIA formula 3 Championship, driving for Trident in 2023. He got off to a strong start with an early win, and led the championship until the season’s end. Winning the title with two victories in His maiden campaign.

 

For 2024, Gabriel moved up to FIA Formula 2, driving for Invicta Virtuosi Racing, alongside Alpine Academy driver Kush Maini.

 

Gabriel fought all season long vs. Isack Hadjar for the title, scoring His first Feature race win at Austria. And then becoming the first Formula 2 driver to win from last place at Monza.

 

Entering the season finale on Yas Isle, bortoleto led Hajar by 0.5 point! Increased to a four point lead following the Sprint race. Then finishing Vice, Err runner-up on Sunday to claim the title. Becoming only the seventh rookie to win the championship and fourth to do the “double” as a rookie. Following the likes of Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Oscar Piastri.

 

Gabriel joined the McLaren Driver Development Programme between 2023-24 and is under the “tutelage” of A14 Management, owned by Fred Alonso. As McLaren released the Brazilian in order to be signed by Sauber for 2025, before becoming the Audi Werks’ F1 team in 2026.

 

Isack Hadjar

Team: Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team

Nationality: French

Birthplace: Paris, France

DOB: September 28, 2004; Age: 20

Car No. 6

 

Isack Hadjar was the final driver confirmed for the 2025 F1 season as Liam Lawson’s replacement at thee ‘lil bulls’, aka Racing bulls operation. The French born Algerian driver began Karting at age seven and made His single seater debut in 2019 in the French formula 4 series. Having first raced in the Ginetta Junior Sports car category.

 

The following year Hadjar finished third overall in the French F4 championship with three win, before graduating to the Formula Regional European and Formula Asian series. As Hadjar’s best weekend appropriately came during the Monaco outing, where He scored His first FR European win along with a runner-up finish.

 

Hadjar finished third overall in the 2022 FR Asian series driving for Hitech, before racing in that year’s FIA Formula 3 Championship also with Hitech. Where His season started off with a “Bang at Bahrain”, being declared the winner after Oliver Bearman received a time penalty.

 

Yet Hadjar who was in the title fight didhimself no favours when crashing on the final corner during qualifying in Monza, colliding with Kush Maini in the race and ultimately finishing fourth overall, before moving onto the FIA Formula 2 championship the following year.

 

Continuing with Hitech in Formual 2 where His teammate was Yank’ Jack Crawford, Isack had a typical, difficult rookie season. Finishing 14th  overall in the standings, two points behind Crawford.

 

For 2023, Hadjar switched to Campos Racing where He fought tooth ‘n nail for the championship title vs. Gabriel Bortoleto. Yet once again, the pressure was too great, as Hadjar stalled at the start of the season finale’s final Feature race!

 

As Hadjar had built up a 36 point lead with four wins prior to the Summer’s break before having to settle for vice Champion behind Bortoleto. Yet being a Red bull Junior driver beginning in 2023, it was only natural to promote Him to the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team. And I like His honesty, saying He’s scared of being a formula 1 driver! But expects to compete for reaching Qualie’s Q3 (Top 10) sessions and score points. And is even hopeful of scoring His first podium finish.

 

As this is the rookie F1 driver I know the least about, but have to say I like His bravado, and will be interested to “See” how He fares vs. established teammate Yuki Tsunoda.

 

As the legendous’ Der Helmut, aka Helmut Marco says Isack is fast but impulsive! Whilst Hadjar himself admits He’d like to drive for Red bull one day, but only if merited…