Racing Bulls Set for Revised 2026 F1 Line-Up with Rookie Promotion

Racing Bulls is reportedly set to introduce a significantly altered driver line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, bringing in another Red Bull junior talent while making other strategic changes. This move signals Red Bull's continued commitment to nurturing young drivers within its ecosystem, preparing them for the pinnacle of motorsport.

Why it matters:

• This shake-up within the Red Bull family highlights a renewed focus on its driver development pipeline, aiming to inject fresh talent into F1. With Isack Hadjar reportedly moving to the senior Red Bull squad, it creates a domino effect, opening doors for the next generation.
• The promotion of rookie Arvid Lindblad, who will be the youngest driver on the 2026 grid, underscores Red Bull's willingness to fast-track promising juniors, a strategy that has historically yielded champions like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.

The Details:

• Isack Hadjar's Promotion: RacingNews365 understands that Isack Hadjar has been chosen to partner Max Verstappen at the senior Red Bull team for 2026. An official announcement is anticipated soon.
• Lindblad Joins Racing Bulls: With Hadjar's departure, the vacant seat at Racing Bulls is set to be filled by rookie Arvid Lindblad, according to RacingNews365 sources. He will join Liam Lawson.
  • Lindblad is currently sixth in the Formula 2 drivers' championship and has already had two FP1 outings with Red Bull this year, with a third scheduled for Abu Dhabi where he will replace Yuki Tsunoda.
  • Sources indicate there was internal debate within Red Bull regarding the rapid promotion of Lindblad, who will be the youngest driver on the grid.
  • The British driver has been a part of the Red Bull junior program throughout his entire racing career.
• Liam Lawson Retained: Liam Lawson will remain with Racing Bulls for another season. Despite starting the current campaign with Red Bull and facing early struggles, his subsequent performances have secured his spot.
  • Lawson's experience will be crucial, as he is expected to provide technical direction alongside the incoming rookie Lindblad.
• Yuki Tsunoda's Exit: Yuki Tsunoda is reportedly set to exit the F1 grid entirely.

What's next:

This strategic realignment within the Red Bull camp is expected to be formally announced imminently. The 2026 season will see a fresh dynamic at Racing Bulls, with Lawson's experience guiding the promising, albeit very young, Lindblad. All eyes will be on how this new line-up performs and whether Red Bull's bold bet on youth pays off, continuing its legacy of developing future F1 stars.