Arvid Lindblad reveals story behind viral 'remember me' message to Lando Norris

Arvid Lindblad, the newly-signed 2026 Racing Bulls Formula 1 driver, has explained the viral five-year-old clip of him telling McLaren's Lando Norris to remember him, as he would see him in F1. The 18-year-old drew inspiration from Lewis Hamilton's famous Ron Dennis story to make his bold declaration, which is now set to come true with his confirmed F1 seat for 2026.

Why it matters:

This story highlights the power of self-belief and a full-circle moment in motorsport. Lindblad's journey from a hopeful teenager making a bold prediction to a confirmed F1 driver exemplifies the aspirational narrative that fuels the sport's junior categories. It also underscores how viral moments can create lasting connections between drivers at different stages of their careers.

The details:

• Lindblad approached Norris at an event five years ago, telling him, "I want you to remember me. I'm going to see you in five years."
• He was inspired by the legendary story of a young Lewis Hamilton telling McLaren boss Ron Dennis he would drive for his team one day.
• Norris was reportedly "taken aback" by the comment but responded positively, acknowledging it was a nice thought.
• Lindblad admitted he didn't fully plan the interaction, saying the words just came out in the moment after a friend doubted he would have the courage to approach the star driver.

Looking ahead:

Lindblad's prediction is set to materialize exactly on schedule. He will join Racing Bulls (currently Visa Cash App RB) for the 2026 season, partnering Liam Lawson as Isack Hadjar moves up to Red Bull. His rapid ascent from karting in 2022 to F4, then F3 in 2024, and F2 in 2025, culminates in this F1 opportunity, proving that the belief he held as a teenager was well-founded.