Max Verstappen Set to Miss First Practice at Mexico City Grand Prix as Red Bull Junior Takes Over
Max Verstappen is reportedly set to miss the opening practice session (FP1) at the upcoming Mexico City Grand Prix, as Red Bull prepares to fulfill its mandatory rookie driver participation requirement. This will mark the second time this season that the reigning world champion steps aside for a junior driver to take the wheel of the RB21.
As part of Formula 1’s regulations, every team must allow a rookie—defined as a driver with two or fewer Grand Prix starts—to participate in at least two FP1 sessions per car during the season. The rule aims to give young drivers valuable track time and exposure in current machinery. Red Bull, like other teams, has strategically scheduled these sessions throughout the year to minimize disruption to its title campaign.
Earlier in the season, Verstappen sat out the FP1 session at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where Japanese Super Formula star and Red Bull academy driver Ayumu Iwasa took his place. Now, according to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, British-born Swedish driver Arvid Lindblad will step into the RB21 for the Mexico City race weekend.
Marko confirmed the plan during the United States Grand Prix weekend, telling media outlets including RacingNews365 that Lindblad would drive one of Red Bull’s cars during the first hour of running at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Although Marko did not officially name which Red Bull driver would be replaced, it is widely reported that Verstappen will be the one sitting out FP1.
Lindblad, just 19 years old, has been one of Red Bull’s most promising junior drivers in recent years. Currently competing in his rookie Formula 2 campaign, he has made a strong impression with his pace, composure, and technical feedback—qualities that have placed him firmly in contention for a Formula 1 seat with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, next season.
The battle for a Racing Bulls drive in 2026 has become increasingly intense, with Lindblad competing directly against current drivers Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson. Both have strong cases to remain in Formula 1—Tsunoda for his experience and consistency, and Lawson for his impressive performances during substitute appearances in previous seasons. However, Red Bull has been known to make bold moves when it comes to promoting young talent, and Lindblad’s rapid progression through the junior ranks has certainly caught the attention of team management.
Speculation in the paddock suggests that Red Bull may have already decided to promote Lindblad to a full-time Formula 1 seat, potentially at Lawson’s expense. However, team officials have maintained that no final decision will be made until after the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, where Lindblad’s performance in FP1 could play a key role in shaping his future.
For Verstappen, missing the session is unlikely to affect his rhythm significantly. The Dutchman remains deeply familiar with the RB21 and has consistently shown that even limited running doesn’t hamper his competitiveness. Still, all eyes will be on Lindblad as he takes on one of the most challenging circuits on the F1 calendar—a high-altitude track known for its thin air, technical corners, and passionate fans.
If the young driver impresses, it could be the final step toward securing his long-awaited Formula 1 debut in 2026.
