Formula 1 rookie Arvid Lindblad has received advice from veteran driver Lewis Hamilton ahead of his debut race weekend at the Australian Grand Prix.

The 18-year-old driver will make his first appearance in Formula 1 with Racing Bulls, Red Bull’s sister team.

Seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton was asked what advice he would give the young driver as he begins his career in Formula 1.

“Firstly, I don’t feel like this is my 20th year – I feel younger than ever somehow, I feel very fresh,” Hamilton began.

“Whilst he says he’s 18, I feel like I’m 18 as well. It’s all in the mind, and physically I feel great.

“Sitting here in my first year, I’d say just enjoy it, which he’s probably already doing. It is being thrown into the deep end, because of all the commitments you have, and the circus takes a while to get used to.

“He’s done a great job already through winter testing and obviously deserves to be here. I’m looking forward to seeing how he progresses.”

Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson also offered advice to Lindblad as he prepared for his first Formula 1 race.

“I think now you get a lot of preparation for F1, even in junior categories, and he’s done a lot of tests, FP1, stuff like that,” Lawson said.

“Once you’re in the sport, it’s all of you guys [the media] and all the noise that is around. That’s probably a new thing and a lot more intense than what you’re used to before F1, so find time for yourself, and make sure you’re focused.”

Lindblad is expected to make his Formula 1 debut Sunday at the season opening Australian Grand Prix.