Verstappen to have a temporary new teammate as Tsunoda steps aside

The 17-year-old Lindblad will drive in the first free practice session ahead of the British Grand Prix for Red Bull Racing. "I'm incredibly excited to be driving during FP1. To participate in an official F1 session will be a very special moment, something I've dreamt of for a long time. Doing this with Oracle Red Bull Racing, after nearly five years in the junior program, makes it extra special,” he said.

Lindblad steps in during the race weekend where Tsunoda hopes to make a comeback. The Japanese driver had a frustrating time in Austria. “Austria was a tough weekend for us. I had high expectations, but unfortunately, things went completely differently than we wanted. We have to accept that and move on,” he said. “I feel more confident in the car every time, and that's why it's frustrating we couldn't take advantage of the pace in the long runs.”

Tsunoda takes some positive points from his season at Red Bull so far. “I've shown that we have the potential in qualification, now it's about getting the setup right and putting down a good lap, like in Canada – before the grid penalty.” He wants to prove himself this weekend: “I want to do well for the whole team and show my value.”

Lindblad knows what he needs to do: “My goal is to quickly get up to speed, collect good data for Yuki and the team to help steer them in the right direction. And of course, to be as fast as possible myself! I can’t wait to hit the track.”