This Red Bull rising star could surprisingly replace Verstappen, should he get a race ban

Although a potential race ban for Max Verstappen has not yet materialized, the risk of seeing the Dutchman sidelined in the coming months remains very real — especially after he picked up three penalty points on his license following the collision with George Russell in the closing stages of the Spanish Grand Prix.

Perhaps for this reason, and to avoid any unpleasant surprises, Red Bull is already taking precautions and does not intend to be caught unprepared.

Although he has not yet reached the age of majority, which in theory prevents him from taking part in a Formula 1 Grand Prix, the young British talent could still benefit from Article 13.1.2 of the FIA’s International Sporting Code Appendix L, according to which ''At the sole discretion of the FIA, a driver judged to have recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car competition may be granted a Super Licence at the age of 17 years old.”

Red Bull’s goal would therefore be to broaden its pool in order to have more options for a possible Verstappen substitute, should he receive a race ban in the upcoming races.

Despite his young age, Lindblad is already making a big impact in this year’s Formula 2 World Championship, having scored 79 points (currently third in the standings behind Verschoor and Dunne) and coming off his second win of the season just last weekend in Barcelona.

The FIA will evaluate Red Bull request and make a decision on the matter during the World Motor Sport Council meeting to be held in Macau next week.

Clearly, if Verstappen were to be sidelined for a race, either Hadjar or Lawson would remain the favorite as a possible temporary replacement.