Without Horner, Red Bull can make another Verstappen-like choice
Christian Horner initially did not want Max Verstappen to debut at Red Bull Racing, Helmut Marko insisted that the then barely eighteen-year-old Dutchman was given the opportunity. It turned out to be the right decision from the Austrian, who could (and should?) make a similar decision for the upcoming year.
The saying "what is good comes quickly" was proved by one Max Verstappen in 2016. In his second season, the Dutchman was moved from the second Red Bull team, then called Toro Rosso, to Red Bull Racing. Immediately, Verstappen won his first Grand Prix, the first of many and ultimately four world titles.
There were enough people who thought Helmut Marko was insane at the time, for why would you put a kid of just eighteen years old into a top team's car? That's because Marko recognized Verstappen's talent and firmly believed in a successful future for his protegé.
Lindblad deserves a chance
Almost ten years later, another top talent is knocking on the door at Red Bull. His name is Arvid Lindblad, now labeled as 'the new Verstappen'. In Formula 2, the newly turned eighteen-year-old Brit is competing for the title, fighting against drivers who are older and more experienced.
There is no doubt that Lindblad will make the switch to Formula 1 next season, where Racing Bulls is his most logical destination. But why not make the move to Red Bull Racing directly, at the same age as Verstappen did?
Undoubtedly, Lindblad will make mistakes alongside Verstappen, just like Andrea Kimi Antonelli is currently doing at Mercedes in a similar situation. That's just part of it. But Mercedes has faith in Antonelli and gives him room to learn, at least for two seasons. Eventually, this should ensure that Antonelli can hone his talent and indeed become the top driver Mercedes desires.
Red Bull Racing as the ideal training ground
Red Bull can give that same confidence to Lindblad; guaranteed two years in the RB22 and RB23 vehicles, learning anew with every race, with Max Verstappen as a great example on the other side of the garage. With the pressure of a top team also on, Red Bull Racing is the ideal training ground. And if it doesn't turn out as expected after two seasons, then say goodbye.
For Red Bull, choosing Lindblad has another advantage: the young man is a Brit, which will likely change how the team is approached by British fans and media.
Red Bull is entering a new era, with a building phase for new successes with self-built and Ford-endorsed engines. Simultaneously, Lindblad can be internally trained for the top, to stand out as soon as Red Bull Racing is again a powerhouse in Formula 1.
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