Red Bull has confirmed a fresh shake-up for booth its F1 teams for the 2026 season, promoting Isack Hadjar to partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing while 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad graduates from F2 to join Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls.
Hadjar’s rise comes after an impressive rookie campaign with the Faenza-based squad, highlighted by a breakthrough podium at the Dutch Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Frenchman also secured two sixth-place finishes, comfortably outqualifying team-mate Lawson on multiple occasions and sitting in the top 10 in the drivers’ standings.
Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, who struggled with form after moving to Red Bull mid-season, will step aside and serve as Red Bull’s reserve driver next year after scoring just 30 points this season, sitting 15th in the standings while Verstappen remains in the title fight.
Hadjar expressed his delight at the promotion, crediting the Red Bull Junior Team for their guidance and support throughout his journey.
“I’m so grateful to Red Bull for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula 1,” commented the Frenchman.
“After all the hard work I have put in since joining the Junior Team, it’s such a great reward. I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me.
“This year with Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the team‘s support and preparation.
“I feel ready to go to Red Bull and I am happy and proud they feel the same. It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.“
Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar’s maturity and raw speed.
“For Isack, in his first F1 season, he has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport,” he said.
“We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track! 2026 will be a huge challenge for the team and for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, these are exciting times, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do together.”
While Hadjar moves up, Lindblad takes his first full F1 seat at Racing Bulls alongside Lawson. The British teenager has been fast-tracked through the Red Bull development programme and is on course to finish sixth in his maiden F2 season.
“I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity. Since I started this journey at five years old, it was always my goal to be in Formula 1 so it’s a proud moment to take this step,” Lindblad said.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Programme and my personal team for their guidance, mentorship and belief; none of this would have been possible without their support. 2026 will be a big challenge and I know there’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work closely with the team and rise to it. I can’t wait to get started, it’s going to be an exciting year.”
Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane welcomed both Hadjar and Lindblad promotions.
“Firstly, a huge congratulations to Isack. He has delivered a truly outstanding season, demonstrating exceptional race-craft and consistency well beyond his experience,” said the Briton.
“He has fully earned his step up to Red Bull Racing and we wish him nothing but the best as he takes on this exciting new challenge in his career – we are proud to have been part of the journey.
“Liam has shown impressive performance and professionalism throughout this year, he has excelled when conditions have been at their hardest and we look forward to building on this in 2026, while Arvid’s rapid progression marks him as one of the standout young talents in the sport.
“Together, they form a strong and dynamic pairing, one that embodies the ambition and youthful spirit of VCARB as we enter a transformative new era for Formula 1.”
Hadjar’s promotion and Lindblad’s graduation underline Red Bull’s commitment to developing its young talents, with both rookies stepping straight into high-pressure roles.
Hadjar will now experience the ultimate learning curve alongside Verstappen, while Lindblad has the chance to establish himself at Racing Bulls under the mentorship of Lawson.
The upcoming 2026 season promises a fascinating mix of youth, raw speed, and big expectations – and Red Bull fans can expect fireworks both at the front and at the sister team.
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