Lindblad cracks prestigious Verstappen-topped ranking after strong F1 debut

The Brit capped his debut in the top tier with an eighth-place finish, securing the first points of his career after a lightning start that briefly saw him running among the front-runners in the opening laps.

With the four points scored in Melbourne at 18 years, seven months and one day, Lindblad became the third-youngest driver in Formula 1 history to score points.

Only Kimi Antonelli, at 18 years, six months and 19 days, and Max Verstappen rank ahead of him, with the Dutchman still holding the record after debuting in Formula 1 as a minor and scoring his first career points at just 17 years, five months and 29 days.

Lindblad, who has Swedish and Indian roots, spoke about the bond he has long felt with Lewis Hamilton, whose own Formula 1 debut came in the very same year the Red Bull junior was born.

The Briton explained that Hamilton was the driver he looked up to most while growing up, recalling how, as a young child, he was already watching him succeed in F1. Lindblad also said he felt a natural connection to Hamilton, both because they share the same debut year in the sport and because seeing a driver of colour competing at the highest level made a strong impression on him.

He added that lining up on the grid alongside Hamilton this season will be particularly special, given everything the seven-time world champion has achieved over the years and the many titles he watched him win on television.