Arvid Lindblad is set to start from the back of the grid for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 after a series of power unit penalties. The Racing Bulls driver has exceeded his allocation of power unit components for the race at the Bahrain International Circuit, and will use a fifth internal combustion engine, turbocharger, and exhaust this season.
Lindblad had reached the penalty-free maximum of four for each of those components last time out in Azerbaijan. The decision to take the penalty in Bahrain indicates that his previous powertrain components are no longer in the pool, and that the Red Bull-owned team sees Bahrain as the best opportunity to exceed the limit and absorb the consequences.
He also used a new set of power unit ancillary components in Baku, which includes parts of the fuel system, wastegate, oil tank, and cooling system. However, this remained within the limit of six sets of ancillary parts.
In Azerbaijan, Lindblad finished seventh after escaping a penalty for contact with his team-mate Liam Lawson on the restart. While trying to avoid Esteban Ocon, Lindblad drifted right at Turn 1 and locked a wheel, resulting in a touch with Lawson that spun the Kiwi around.
Nevertheless, the teenager was able to recover and put moves on both Haas drivers, including an overlap on Ocon at the finish line, to be classified seventh by just 0.03s. The incident sparked controversy, with Lawson stating he did not understand why Lindblad escaped a penalty.
Reflecting on the incident, Lindblad said: "We discussed it internally, what happened, and I know what I'd do differently in future. I've apologised already and yeah, it's done now. I know what I'll do differently in future. We've discussed it, so just looking forward to Bahrain now."
The penalty is a blow for Lindblad, who is fighting to show consistency in his debut season. Starting from the back, he will need an aggressive strategy and to capitalise on every opportunity to score points. The Bahrain circuit, with its wide run-off areas and several overtaking spots, allows for a comeback, but the challenge remains tough given the fierce midfield competition.
Racing Bulls appear to have calculated that Bahrain is a relatively easy track for overtaking, so the grid penalty will not be as costly as if taken at a track like Monaco or Singapore. This decision also gives the team a chance to refresh the power unit pool without sacrificing races at more critical circuits. Now, Lindblad's focus is on maximising the race and proving he can bounce back from adversity.
Baca Juga
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Liam Lawson menutup insiden kontak dengan Arvid Lindblad di Baku dan kini fokus meraih poin di GP Malaysia. Simak pernyataan lengkapnya.
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