Arvid Lindblad, 17, to make F1 debut in British GP practice, likely to replace Max Verstappen

Dubai: Arvid Lindblad, just 17, looks all set to make his Formula 1 debut during the free practice session at the British Grand Priz in Silverstone next week.

The Red Bull driver who contests F2 with Campos is considered as a potential replacement for Max Verstappen if the reigning F1 champion, who is just a point away from a ban.

"We are preparing ourselves in case something really happens with Max Verstappen in terms of his penalty points," Red Bull advisor Marko told Austrian outlet Kleine Zeitung.

Lindblad who is of Swedish and Indian descent, acquired an FIA superlicence and conducting a first fully-fledged test with Racing Bulls at Imola this week.

The 17-year-old has already proved his worth in F2 after becoming the youngest driver to win a race in the Sprint Race at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

"He spent half a day in the car in Italy to prepare him," Marko said. "And he will also be in the car for Friday practice at Silverstone. He is characterised by his mental strength and self-confidence."

"We currently have two replacement drivers: Lindblad and Ayumu Iwasa, whose Formula 1 commitments overlap with his commitments in Japan.

"For some races we even had a deal with another team, and once a substitute driver was even scheduled for three teams.

“It is not so easy to find someone who is in good shape. And that's why Lindblad is now in the car," Marko added.

Meanwhile, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is hopeful that Verstappen will complete the Austrian Grand Prix without incurring another penalty.