🔗 Share this article

The Red Bull team has confirmed a new line-up for the 2026 F1 campaign, moving up French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit Racing Bulls.

This driver musical chairs results in Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

A Star in the Making

The youngster was marked out as a potential future star by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Discussing the team's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", highlighting his "natural quickness".

Red Bull prepared a programme since last year to prepare Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring appearances in Grand Prix practice at Silverstone and Mexico City.

The rookie said it was a "huge honour", adding: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the championship heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has been one of the stand-out newcomers of the year.

He included an outstanding podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the championship.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

The promoted driver called it "an awesome move" and said he felt "ready".

Tsunoda's Exit

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was moved back early in the year. However, he has settled back in at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he deserves another season.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's points total.

The driver market moves mean that there is also no spot on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 for 2026.