Racing Bulls bullish despite Lindblad crash: 'Excellent day' at Spanish GP

Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane described Friday practice at the Spanish Grand Prix as an 'absolutely excellent day' despite Arvid Lindblad's crash in FP2, with the VCARB 03 showing strong pace at the new Madrid circuit.

Why it matters:

Racing Bulls have been quietly impressing in 2026, and their form at the Madring suggests they could be a factor in the midfield battle. With the car's kerb-riding ability proving ideal for the circuit's first sector, both drivers are in the top 10 after Friday – a promising sign ahead of qualifying.

The details:

• Lindblad's crash: The rookie lost the rear on the exit of La Monumental and slid into the Turn 13 wall. He had been running fourth, just two tenths off the pace, and admitted he 'overdid it a bit.'
• Tsunoda's resilience: Yuki Tsunoda also made the top 10 despite a difficult day marked by power steering issues.
• Permane's confidence: The team boss believes the car is 'properly fast' – potentially a top-seven qualifying car. He expects both cars to make Q3 unless someone finds a big overnight gain.
• No harm done: Lindblad noted that no one completed a meaningful long run, so the lost track time is less costly. The circuit will keep rubbering in, meaning he must adapt to increasing grip in FP3 and qualifying.

What's next:

With qualifying expected to be the most important session of the weekend, Racing Bulls will aim to convert their Friday pace into a strong grid position. FP3 will be used for fine-tuning, but Permane's optimism is clear: 'I don't see any reason why we shouldn't be confident.'