Red Bull Confirms Hadjar for 2026, Lindblad to Racing Bulls

Red Bull has announced a significant driver lineup overhaul for its Formula 1 teams in 2026, promoting Isack Hadjar to Red Bull Racing to partner Max Verstappen, while 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad will graduate from F2 to join Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls.

Hadjar's rapid ascent follows an impressive rookie campaign with the Faenza-based Racing Bulls squad, highlighted by a breakthrough podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Frenchman also secured two sixth-place finishes, consistently out-qualifying teammate Lawson on multiple occasions and currently sitting in the top 10 of the drivers' standings.

Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, who struggled with form after moving to Red Bull mid-season, will step aside from a race seat to serve as Red Bull's reserve driver next year. He scored just 30 points this season, placing him 15th in the standings, while Verstappen remains locked in the title fight.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's decision to promote two young talents directly into F1 race seats for 2026 underscores their aggressive strategy of nurturing and fast-tracking their junior drivers. This move signals a strong belief in the potential of Hadjar and Lindblad to perform at the highest level, potentially redefining the team's future competitive dynamics and Verstappen's partnerships. It also reflects a willingness to make bold changes, moving on from established drivers like Tsunoda, in pursuit of championship success.

The Details:

• Isack Hadjar's Promotion: Hadjar expressed immense gratitude to Red Bull for the opportunity, crediting the Junior Team's guidance through his 'ups and downs.' He emphasized feeling 'much better as a racing driver and a person' after his season with Racing Bulls, highlighting his readiness to learn from Verstappen.
  • Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar's 'great maturity' and 'raw speed,' stating, "We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track!"
• Arvid Lindblad's F1 Debut: The British teenager has been fast-tracked through the Red Bull development program and is on course to finish sixth in his maiden F2 season. Lindblad thanked VCARB and the Red Bull Junior Programme, acknowledging the 'big challenge' ahead but expressing readiness to 'work closely with the team.'
• Yuki Tsunoda's New Role: After a challenging season with 30 points and a 15th-place standing, Tsunoda will transition to a reserve driver role for Red Bull in 2026.
• Racing Bulls Lineup: Lindblad will join Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls, forming a young and dynamic pairing. Team Principal Alan Permane lauded Hadjar's 'outstanding season' and Lindblad's 'rapid progression,' noting they 'embody the ambition and youthful spirit of VCARB.'

The Big Picture:

This reshuffle represents a bold step in Red Bull's long-standing commitment to its junior driver program. By placing two relatively unproven talents into high-stakes F1 roles, Red Bull is making a clear statement about its developmental philosophy. Hadjar will face the ultimate test alongside a world champion like Verstappen, while Lindblad gets the chance to establish himself under Lawson's mentorship at Racing Bulls. This strategy aims to build a sustainable future with homegrown talent, aligning with the new regulations coming in 2026.

What's next:

The 2026 season, with its new technical regulations and Red Bull's new power unit partnership with Ford, promises a fascinating mix of youth, raw speed, and high expectations. If Hadjar can quickly adapt to the demands of a top team and if Lindblad can translate his F2 success to F1, Red Bull could find itself with a formidable long-term driver lineup. Fans can anticipate intense competition and a fresh dynamic across both Red Bull-owned teams as they navigate this transformative era for Formula 1.