Lawson Confirmed for Racing Bulls in 2026 as Hadjar Ascends to Red Bull

Liam Lawson will remain with Racing Bulls in 2026, marking a significant development in Red Bull's driver lineup. This announcement coincides with Red Bull Racing's confirmation that Isack Hadjar will join Max Verstappen in the senior team, with Yuki Tsunoda transitioning to a test and reserve driver role.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's 2026 driver lineup reshuffle highlights their long-term strategy for nurturing talent within their extensive junior program. Confirming both Lawson and Hadjar for key roles in the upcoming regulatory era demonstrates a commitment to their pipeline, with Hadjar's promotion to the main team signaling a fresh era alongside Verstappen. This move also fills the final vacant seats on the 2026 grid, solidifying the driver landscape for the transformative new regulations.

The Details:

• Lawson's Journey: Lawson's confirmation at Racing Bulls (VCARB) caps a tumultuous year. After a brief stint at Red Bull in late 2024, he returned to the junior team and initially struggled to match Hadjar's pace. However, he quickly found his form, becoming a consistent midfield performer, scoring 38 points across seven top-10 finishes, including a career-best fifth in Azerbaijan.
• Hadjar's Ascent: Isack Hadjar's promotion to Red Bull Racing is a testament to his standout rookie campaign in 2025. The 21-year-old secured his maiden podium at the Dutch Grand Prix and finished inside the top 10 in the drivers' standings with 10 points-scoring finishes, second only to Kimi Antonelli among rookies.
• Red Bull's Dynamic Duo: Hadjar will become Max Verstappen's fourth different teammate in 15 months, following Sergio Pérez, Lawson, and Tsunoda. Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar's maturity, quick learning, and raw speed, expressing eagerness to see him thrive alongside Verstappen.
• Tsunoda's New Role: Yuki Tsunoda, who was briefly promoted to the senior team earlier this year, will step back into a test and reserve driver role. Mekies noted that Tsunoda will continue to provide invaluable support to the team.
• Team Principal's Remarks: Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane commended Lawson's performance and professionalism, particularly in challenging conditions, and praised Hadjar's rapid progression as one of the sport's standout young talents. Permane believes they form a strong and dynamic pairing that embodies VCARB's ambition for the new F1 era.

What's next:

With the 2026 grid now fully confirmed, all eyes will be on how these young talents adapt to the new regulatory era and the challenges that lie ahead. Lawson aims to build on his strong 2025 performance, while Hadjar faces the monumental task of partnering a multiple world champion in Max Verstappen. The development of the new power units and chassis under the 2026 regulations will be crucial for both teams, and the dynamic between these newly formed driver pairings will undoubtedly be a key storyline as F1 enters its next chapter.